UNITED  STATES  RAILROAD  ADMINISTRATION 
DIRECTOR  GENERAL  OF  RAILROADS 
A  ^^^  Bulletin  No  8 

oH|  A  MANUAL  ON 

°li  FIRE  PROTECTION  FOR 
tm  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES 


FOR  THE  USE  AND  INFORMATION  OF 
FIRE  PROTECTION  INSPECTORS 


COMPILED  BY 

CHARLES  N   RAMBO.  Manager 

THE  FIRE  LOSS  AND  PROTECTION  SECTION 
DIVISION  OF  FINANCE  AND  PURCHASES 

JOHN  SKELTON  WILLIAMS   Director 


washington 
government  printing  office 

191'; 


The  Appeal  to  America 


SAFEGUARDING  INDUSTRY 


PRESIDENT  WILSON  says: 

"Preventable  fire  is  more  than  a  private 
misfortune.  It  is  a  public  dereliction. 
At  a  time  like  this  of  emergency  and  of 
manifest  necessity  for  the  conservation  of 
national  resources,  it  is  more  than  eVer 
a  matter  of  deep  and  pressing  consequence 
that  every  means  should  be  taken  to  pre- 
vent this  evil." 


SRL.F 

URL 


PREVENT  FIRE  LOSSES  ON  RAILROADS. 

PREVENTING  AND  REDUCING  THE  FIRE  WASTE  OF  THE  NATION 
WILL  HELP  TO  PROVIDE  FOR  THE  NATION'S  NEEDS. 


1.  All  officers  and  employees  of  railroads  should  be  on  guard  at  all  times, 
show  their  loyalty  and  cooperation,  and  through  earnest  efforts  and  constant 
vigilance  accept  their  responsibility  toward  the  elimination  of  the  unnecessary 
fire  loss  to  railroad  properties. 

2.  Let  each  employee  consider  liimself  a  fire  inspector  or  warden,  as  far  as 
his  particular  duties  are  concerned  and  in  so  far  as  any  dangerous  condition 
may  come  to  his  notice;  and  let  each  one  have  in  mind  constantly  that  through 
no  act  of  his,  or  through  no  lack  of  action  on  his  part,  will  he  create  a  fire 
hazard  or  allow  one  to  pass  unnoticed. 

3.  If  you  know  of  or  see  a  fire  danger  or  hazard,  report  it  immediately  to 
your  superior  in  charge  of  your  department. 

4.  Keep  in  mind  constantly  that  the  first  requisite  in  the  preveution  of  fire 
waste  is  good  housekeeping — meaning  cleanliness.  Remove  accumulations  of 
rubbish  and  waste,  and  guard  inflammable  property  and  materials  from  all 
sources  of  danger  by  fire.  Guard  against  not  only  physical  defects  but  neglects 
brougiit  about  through  carelessness,  indifference,  ignorance,  or  willfulness  on 
the  part  of  any  i»er.son..  Smoking  is  a  general  habit;  guard  carefully  against 
hazards  and  careless  practices  incident  to  it. 

5.  Railroad  operation  is  in  its  nature  so  continuous  that  destruction  of  prop- 
erty u.sed  in  it  leaves  marked  consequential  lo.s.ses.  The  acceptance  of  indi- 
vidual responslbHily  will  prevent  not  only  large  waste  of  property,  whicli  can 
not  be  replaced  to-day,  but  temporary  loss  of  employment  through  the  destruc- 
tion of  facilities  and  serious  interference  with  ojjerations. 

W.  G.  IMcAnoo, 
DiiGotor  Qeneral  of  Raihinnla. 

a 


CONTEXTS. 


■*••  Page. 

Access  to  fallroad  terminals,  shops,  etc.,  by 

public  fire  departments 67 

Acetone 26 

Alcohol 26 

Amyl  acetate 26 

Ashes 14,23 

Ashpans 96 

Automatic  sprinklers 45 

B.  --^ 

Benzine 20, 77 

Benzole 26 

Bituminous  coal 43 

Blacksmith  shops .• 76 

Blower  systems 29 

BoilfT  houses 24 

settings 24 

stacks 24 

Braziers 15 

Bridges 94 

Brigades,  fire 47 

Buffing as' 

C. 

Cars,  on  sidings,  in  yards,  and  at  terminals. .  .34 

camp 36 

Car  heating,  freight 44 

Car  inspectors'  houses 95 

Carbon  bisulphide 26 

Carlson  tetrachloride  exthiguishcrs 65 

Calcium  carbide,  storage  of 95 

chloride C4 

Camp  cars 36 

Cans,  safety • 76 

Chemical  Are   extinguishers,   carbonic  acid 

gas 64 

carbon  tetrachloride 65 

Chimneys 21 

Chloride,  sodium 64 

City  fire  dopartmenls,  cooperation  with..        10,54 

Clothes  lockers 34 

Coiil ,  bituminous 43 

Coaling  stations 27 

Cold  weather  precautions i«h 

Collfxl  ion 2tl 

lolunihliin  spirlta 26 

C'oiiccnirnllon  of  cars  on  sidings,  in  yards,  or 

lit  Krminals .34 

(  onfirrii'-e  of  olliccrsand  local  committee 10 

Constniotion 13 

Conveyor  systems,  refuse  and  dust  collect  Ing.  29,  .37 
Cotton,  handling,  storage,  and   transporta- 
tion    97 

Cotton  rubber-lined  Arc  hose 56 

Couplings,  boso 58 


Page. 

Culverts 16 

Cupola 25 

D. 

Dip  tanks 96 

Disposing  of  shavings  and  sawdust 29 

Doors,  fire 14 

Dope 15 

Drills,  fire 52 

Drip  pans 14 

Drop  cords  from  electric  lamps 84 

Dry  powder  extingui-shcrs 66 

Dust  collecting  systems 37 

Duties  of  fire  inspectors 20 

Dynamos 17 

E. 

Electrician 16 

Electricity S2 

Electric  lamps 84 

wiring S3 

Employees'  clothes  lockers 34 

Engines,  stationary,  gasoline,  installation  of  80 

gas 80 

Ether 26 

Explosions  of  grain  dust 37 

Explosive  compounds 27 

Explosives 11, 15 

Extinguishers,  locomotive  fire  apparatus 66 

chemical 64 

carbon  tetrachloride 65 

dry  powder 06 

F. 

Fighting  Hre , 55 

Fire-alarm  system 54 

Fire  barrels 61 

brigades 47 

cars 67 

chiefs 49 

departments,  city,  cooperation  with 10,54 

doors 14 

drills 52 

hazards,  of  grain  elevators 36 

hose 56 

hydrants 59 

hydrant  systems 59 

losses,  how  to  prevent ,.  13 

marslials 10 

palls 61 

prevention  committees 10 

pumps 46 

shutters 13 

walls 13 

Fire extlngiilshlrip apparatus  on  locomotives.  06 

Flrliig-up  locomotives 75 

G 


6 


CONTENTS. 


Page. 
Flues "21 

Foreword ''•^ 

Forges ^^ 

Foundry  buildings 25, 76 

Freezing,  protection  against f'^ 

Freight  car  heating ^^ 

Freight  transfers ♦. 33 

l^irnaces,  gasoline 16 

hot  air 21 

Fuel  oil 3" 

Fusees,  storage '' ^ 

G. 

General  Rtiles 13-19 

Gas  fixtures 16 

Gas  engines 80 

Gasoline 26, 87 

Gasoline  barrels ^8 

Gasoline  engines,  stationary,  installation  of. .       80 

Giass-tont  lamps — 16 

Grain  elevators 36 

driers 41 

Gi^ss,  weeds 16 

Guarding  and  identification 94 

H. 
Handling,    storage,    and    transportation    of 

cotton 

Hazards  paint  stock 

Heating 

freight  cars 

couplings 

Hose  houses 

Houses,  car  inspectors 

How  to  prevent  fire  losses 

Hydrants 


IdentiQcation  and  guarding  various  properties 

ignition,  spontaneous 

Illumination,  grain  elevators 

piers 

storage  warehouses 

terminals 

Inspection  of  fire  apparatus 

locomotives 

Inspector,  duties  of 

Installation  of  stationary  gasolaie  engines — 


Locomotive  firing  up . 
Lumber 


Page. 
75 
16 


Macliiue-shop  sweepings . 

Matches 

Motors 


Jets,  gas 16 

steam 32, 78 

K. 

Kitchen  ranges,  setting  of 81 

Kerosene,  oil  lamps 85 

Kerosene,  for  heating  and  lighting 86 

L. 

Lacquer 26, 77 

Lacquering ^^ 

Lamps,  kerosene  oil -i 

Large  storage  warehouses 94 

Lighting 16 

Lightning 90 

Locker  rooms . . . : ■ 14 

Locomotives,  fire-extinguishing  apparatus ...  66 

inspection  of 96 


itors 


N. 


Naphtha 26 

National  Standard  hose  couplings 58 

Night  watchmen 18, 68 

No  smoking,  signs ''1 


O. 


Oily  waste 

Oil  supply,  storage  and  handling. 
Oil,  fuel 

houses 

kerosene 

small  supplies 

Opeff^ame  torches 

P. 


15,72 
74 
17 
31 
85 
74 
74 


Packing  material 

Pails,  water , 

Paints 

Paint  stock 

Paper  flies 

Paper  or  pasteboard  shades 

Petroleum  ether 

Piers 

Post  indicator  valves 

Power 

Prevent  fire  losses,  poster 

Private  fire-alarm  systems 

Protection  against  freezing. 

Public  fire-alarm  boxes 

Public  fire  departments,  access  to 

terminals,  shops,  etc •^. 

Pumps,  fire 

Purchase,  use,  and  careof  firehose — 


Iroatl 


15 
61 
78 
76 
91 
16 
26 
94 
IS 
17 
3 

10,18 
63 

18,55 

67 

4« 
56- 


R, 

Eecords,  storage  of 91 

Refuse  conveyor  systems 29, 37 

Responsibility  of  employees  for  preventing 

fire  losses 3 

Rolling  equipment 15, 34 

Rubbish 14j23 


Safety  cans 

lanterns. 
Salt 


Saud ^= 

Sawdust,  disposal  of 

Scoops IS 

Self-inspection 

Shavings,  d isposal  of 

Shop  practices 

Sidings,  storage  of  cars 

Skylights 

Smokiug 

Snow  fences 

Sodium  cliloride 

Soot  accumulations 

Spark  arrest  ers 

Spittoons 


CONTEXTS. 


Page. 

Spontaneous  ignition 92 

Sprinklers,  automatic -io 

Stacks,  boiler l',  24 

Steam  fire  pumps '*6 

jets 32,7.S 

mains 2S 

pipes 23 

Stored  cars 1 5 ,  16 .  34 

Storage  of  bituminous  coal 43 

calcium  carbide 95 

ears  on  sidings,  in  yards,  and  at 

terminals 34 

;otton 97 

fusees  and  torpedoes 7S 

records 91 

small  oil  supplies 74 

waste  papers 71 

warehouses 94 

Stoves 21 

gasolene 17 

gas 22 

oil 17 

Sulphur  bleachers 41 

T. 

Tanks ,  dip 96 

Telegraph  and  telephone  wires 15 

Terminals 94 

storage  of  cars 34 

access  by  public  fire  departments 67 

Timber 76 

Toluol 2'i 

Torches,  open 74 

Torpedoes,  storage  of 7S 


Page. 

Transfers,  freight ;;:; 

Trunsportation  of  explosives  and  dangerous 

articles H 

Trestles 94 

Turpentine 20,77 

U. 

Underwriters'  Laboratories U 

Unlined  linen  fire  hose 57 

V. 

Vapor  carry-off  ilues 82 

Vapor-proof  incandescent  lamps 18 ,  32 

Varnishes 77 

Varnish  removers 77 

Ventilating  systems  from  kitchens 81 

Volatileoils 77 

W. 

Warehouses,  storage 94 

V,"ash  rooms 11 

Waste  cans 72 

Waste,  clean 15, 72 

Waste  papers,  storage  and  handling 71 

Watchman  service 18, 68 

Water  barrels 61 

mains 18 

pails 61 

Weeds 16 

White-wash  formula 76 

Woodworking  mills 29 

Y. 
Yards,  storage  of  cars *. 34 


FOEEWOED. 
FIRE  PROTECTION  APPLIED  TO  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 


The  large  values  invested  in  railroad  property,  aside  from  right  of  way,  road- 
beds, etc.,  and  the  large  liabilities  involving  the  carriers,  can  be  readily  eom- 
pi-ehended.  We  are  dealing  with  a  problem  affecting  billions  of  dollars  in 
l»roperty  value.  When  we  glance  at  the  enormous  growth  of  the  transportation 
lines  in  this  country  in  the  last  25  years,  and  with  the  careful  study  now  given 
to  all  phases  of  safety  and  economy  in  operation,  it  can  readily  be  seen  that  the 
question  of  fire  protection  aiul  prevention  sliould  play  no  small  part,  for,  aside 
from  the  destruction  of  values  brought  about  by  fire  losses,  there  is  always  tlie 
incidental  and  consequential  interruption  of  operations.  The  nature  of  the 
business  of  transportation  requires  that  more  than  ordinary  precautions  be 
ti'ken  to  safeguard  against  and  keep  free  from  the  interruptions  to  their 
operations  which  fire  loss  and  damage  cause.  Such  interruption  naturally 
varies  with  the  importance  of  the  property.  As  an  illustration,  we  might  cite 
the  destruction  by  fire  of  an  interlocking  tower,  with  the  subsequent  detention 
or  interruption  in  train  service,  on  up  to  the  large  terminal  and  shop  prop- 
erties, dislocating  the  machinery  of  trauhportation  and  requiring  readjust- 
ment involving  far-reaching  consequential  details. 

One  of  the  first  demands  in  connection  with  the  study  of  fire  prevention  is 
that  of  good  housekeeping,  Involving  enforcements  tliat  will  insure  it  through 
a  large  property  as  a  matter  of  daily  ('ity  and  through  which  means  the 
l>o.ssibility  of  fires  may  be  largely  avoided.  This  can  be  accomplished  by  the 
appointment  of  employees  in  each  portion  of  a  property  with  such  authority 
as  may  be  necessary  to  see  that  cleanliness  is  observed  and  through  the  posting 
fif  ofiiclal  notices  in  prominent  places  requiring  the  carrying  out  of  fire- 
Iirotection  rules  .so  pn-jtared  as  to  meet  conditions  usually  found  in  railroad 
fin  (pert  ies. 

Tiie  protection  of  iiroportios  again.st  fire  Is  an  imiiortant  part  of  tlie  (hity  of 
ovi-ry  offlf-er  and  employee.  Every  fire  in  railroad  property  should  be  made  the 
I)frsonal  responsibility  of  some  employee.  It  must  be  remembered  that  the 
majority  of  fire  lo.sses  are  preventable  and  that  they  are  jjirgely  a  matter,  of 
b-u-k  of  cleanliness  and  carefidness,  and  that  the  great  study  of  prevention  nuist 
be  along  these  lines. 

This  subject  of  flrc-e\tingu1shing  apparatus  Is  necessarily  one  of  great  detail 
.iiid  brings  out  the  study  of  the  extent  and  character  of  the  iiroperlies,  the 
niitiiral  condith)ns  surrounding  them,  and  their  use  and  oreuiK-uicy.  Tlie  class 
of  appliances  will  necessarily  cover  a  wide  range,  starting,  however,  with  the 
idi-a  of  having  an  ample  supply  of  water  to  meet  the  maxinnnn  of  conditions 
that  might  arise.  Careful  study  Is  necessary  to  deterndne  the  specific  character 
of  fire-extingnisbing  devices  rof|uired  to  meet  the  demands  of  each  clas.s  of 
property.     These  imhide  the  use  of  a  system  <if  automntie  pmtection  which  is 


10  FOEEWOBD. 

the  Iiest  class  that  may  be  considered  and  which  is  recognized  as  the  only 
one  producing  the  maximum  of  efficiency  and  success  iu  controlling  fires;  water 
mains  and  fire-hydrant  systems  under  ample  volume  and  pressure  from  public 
or  private  resei-voir  or  other  source  of  supply,  with  incidental  fire  pumps, 
elevated  tanks,  standpipes,  fire  hose,  fire  extinguishers,  steam  jets,  sand  pails, 
water  barrels  and  pails ;  all  of  which  must  be  studied  and  installed  with  a  due 
regard  to  their  relative  values.  An  important  fire-fighting  agency  on  railroad 
properties  is  the  locomotive  or  yard  engine  used  at  terminals  and  large  yards 
remote  from  public  protection,  so  equipped  for  supplying  water  under  pressure 
with  the  aid  of  fire  hose  as  to  give  good  service  in  event  of  fires  in  rolling 
equipment  and  its  lading. 

Fire-alarm  systems  are  an  important  factor,  particularly  in  large  properties, 
to  obtain  prompt  use  of  fire  appliances  through  the  prompt  summoning  of  drilled 
employees  and  municipal  departments. 

The  success  of  the  fire-prevention  idea  must  be  4ue  entirely  to  well-organized 
forces  in  all  departments.  Without  system  and  organization  through  the  lielp 
and  authority  of  executives  or  the  general  management,  such  matters  can  not 
be  made  an  important  factor  with  tlie  men.  The  prevention  of  the  occuiTence 
of  those  things  which  hinder  or  retard  the  progress  of  operation  or  which  are 
a  menace  to  life  and  property  is  brought  about  or  is  enhanced  by  education 
through  instructions,  rules,  etc.,  issued  under  an  executive  order.  In  this  way 
cooperation  is  secured  amongst  the  rank  and  file. 

•  Fires,  like  accidents,  liappen  at  unexpected  times.  Continued  vigilance  is 
therefore  essential,  and  without  a  general  cooperation  and  knowledge  of  dangers 
we  can  not  escape  their  consequences. 

With  the  large  values  Involved  and  elaborate  expenditures  made  for  devices 
and  appliances  for  fire  extinguishment,  it  is  important  that  the  furtherance  of 
the  organization  idea  should  be  pushed  for  its  intelligent  and  prompt  use, 
without  which  the  expenditures  are  of  no  avail  when  manual  use  is  required 
of  the  equipment.  Therefore,  in  order  to  have  the  appliances  serve  the  good 
purpose  that  was  intended,  it  is  necessary  to  so  perfect  the  organization  as  to 
get  the  greatest  amount  of  value  therefrom. 

Rigid  and  systematic  inspection  of  all  fire  apparatus  sliould  also  be  made 
by  specially  delegated  employees,  preferably  members  of  fire  brigades,  at  least 
once  a  week ;  everything  down  to  the  smallest  piece  of  apparatus  should  be  in 
its  place  and  iu  good  order  ready  for  use,  and  a  report  of  such  inspection 
should  be  made  to  those  in  authority. 

Fire-prevention  committees,  fire  marshals,  chiefs  or  captains  of  fire  brigades, 
are  all  necessary  parts  of  an  efficient  organization,  and  the  inspection  of 
buildings  and  their  valuable  contents  for  fire  hazards  by  such  committees  or 
members  of  fire  departments  are  necessary.  Members  of  fire  departments, 
possibly  uniformed  or  otherwise  designated  with  authority,  should  be  especially 
delegated  to  make  at  least  weekly  inspections  and  report  to  the  authorities  in 
charge  on  the  condTtions,  and  day  and  night  watchmen  should  patrol  all  parts 
of  the  property  for  the  same  purpose,  having  their  tours  properly  recorded  on 
ajiproved  devices  to  assure  efficiency. 

There  should  be  monthly  conferences  of  officers  or  local  committees  at  which 
matters  of  general  interest  might  be  considered  with  a  view  of  continuing 
efforts  for  substantial  improvements,  for  with  all  reasonable  precaution  thei'e 
is  still  the  factor  that  relaxation  may  be  fatal. 

While  many  of  the  railroads  of  the  country  have  issued  rules  and  regulations 
or  instructions  for  the  guidance  of  their  employees  in  the  proper  care  and  man- 
agement of  their  properties  in  respect  to  protection  against  loss  by  fire,  we 
believe  a  "manual"  or  "handbook"  on  "  fire-preveatiou  "  subjects  will  give  au 


FOREWOKD.  11 

opr'ortnnity  to  siich  roads  as  have  not  adopted  any  rnles  or  regulations,  of  hav- 
ing some  avaihible  suggestions  vrhich  may  be  adopted  for  general  infor:n:ition, 
education,  and  guidance  throughout  their  proi^erties,  and  used  as  a  melius  of 
study  for  the  prevention  of  tire  losses,  in  other  words,  recommended  practices. 

The  details  are  compiled  from  recommendations  of  the  National  Fire  Pro- 
tection Association,  Railway  Fire  Protection  Association,  and  other  agencies 
dealiug  with  the  specific  classes  of  risks  found  in  railroad  properties. 

Underweiteks'  Labokatories  and  its  Sekvice. 

The  Underwriters'  Laboratories  (incorporated  under  the  laws  of  the  State 
of  Illinois)  operates  under  the  direction  of  the  National  Board  of  Fire  Un- 
derwriters, a  general  testing  station  and  laboratories  at  207  East  Ohio  Street, 
Chicago,  and  testing  stations  for  electrical  goods  at  New  York  and  London, 
At  these  plants  facilities  are  provided  for  the  testing  under  uniform  and  stand- 
ard conditions  of  any  device  or  material  having  a  bearing  on  the  fire  hazard. 
By  means  of  these  facilities  manufacturers  are  able  to  'secure  expert  authori- 
tative opinions  as  to  the  merits  of  their  wares,  and  property  owners,  archi- 
tects, oflicials,  uu.l  inspectors  have  ready  access  to  full  and  complete  data  con- 
cerning appliances  and  materials  wliich  are  proposed  for  use  and  which  affect 
the  fire  hazard  either  as  possible  sources  of  fire  or  as  means  of  discovering, 
retarding,  or  extinguishing  fires. 

Separate  and  individual  pamphlets  regarding  regulations,  rules,  and  require- 
ments and  standards  prepared  by  the  National  Fire  Protection  Association, 
and  adopted  and  published  by  the  National  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters,  can 
be  secured  from  the  nearest  underwriters'  bureaus  or  associations,  in  connec- 
ti('ii  with  specific  subjects. 

Transpobtation  of  ExPi.osrvES  and  Other  Dangerous  Articles. 

The  Interstate  Commerce  Commission  has  issued  under  date  -of  July  15, 
1018.  revised  regulations  for  the  transportation  of  explosives  and  other  dan- 
gerous articles  by  freight  and  express.  These  regulations  and  the  revised  rules 
of  the  American  Railway  Association,  which  have  been  approved  by  the  Director 
Clcneral  of  the  United  States  Railroad  Administration,  have  been  publislied 
and  issue<l  by  the  Bureau  of  Explosives,  30  Vesey  Street,  New  York  City, 
September,  1918.  ^ 

All  fire  inspectors,  officers,  and  employees  of  raih'oads  should  be  supidied  with 
;i  copy  of  these  revised  regulations  that  tliny  may  study  and  be  guided  by  the 
regulations  in  connection  with  this  important  subject. 


GENERAL  INFORMATION. 

GENERAL  RULES  FOR  THE  PREVENTION  OF  FIRE 

LOSSES. 

[Whore  standard  roauirpnipnts.  rules,  or  specifications  are  mentioned  the  publications  o( 
the  National  Fire  Trotection  Association  or  Railway  Fire  Frotection  Association  nrc 
referred  to.] 


Note. 


-Where  municipal  or  State  ordinances  or  regulations  may  be  in  effect  rc-^ardhiff 
any   hazard,   they   should  be   ascertained.  " 


CONSTRUCTION. 

One  of  the  greatest  factors  In  rlctennining  tlie  extent  of  fire  los.«.es  and  conse- 
quent interference  with  operations  is  the  method  and  character  of  building 
construction.  Wherever  feasible,  fireproof  or  fire-resisting  materials  should 
enter  into  the  construction  of  buildings.  The  height  and  area  are  important 
factors  to  be  considered. 

Structures  of  large  areas  and  those  having  sections  used  for  varied  pur- 
poses, and  all  adjoining  and  connnunicating  buildings,  should  ba  divided  by 
brick  walls  of  standard  thickness  running  up  through  and  above  the  roof 
cutting  off  cornices,  vith  all  door  openings  protected  by  standard  automatic 
closing  fire  doors.  In  all  exposed  buildings  windows  to  be  provided  with 
wired  glass  in  metal  sash  and  frames,  or  standard  fire  shutters,  or  both,  or  a 
system  of  open  or  automatic  dry  pipe  sprinklers,  where  conditions  warrant 
such  an  installation. 

Wooden  buildings  should  bo  built  in  a  nonexposing  posUifai.  Wooden  lean-to 
or  small  frame  biiildiiigs  slmuld  not  be  connected  to  large  valuable  buildings 
or  atljacent  thereto. 

All  openings  through  walls  and  floors,  including  elevator  shafts,  stairways, 
bi'lt  lioles,  etc.,  should  be  protected  by  automatically  closing  doors  or  traps. 

Fire  walls,  doors,  and  shutters  should  be  made  standard,  according  to  sjjeci- 
fl<ations  of  the  National  Fire  Protection  Association. 

Fireproof  oil  and  paint  stock  rooms  and  hou.ses  located  apart  from  and  not 
exposing  valuable  prt>iierty  are  recommended.     (8ee  special  article.) 

Flues,  chlmnrys,  and  .-stadias:  Pare  should  be  used  In  their  construftion  so  as 
to  insure  safety,  particular  alffiitinn  being  given  (o  keep  free  of  timbers. 
(See  special  article.) 

It  Is  recommended  when  diawing  j.lans  and  specifications  that  provlsicm  be 
made  fur  wireways  for  rendering  concealed  wiring  In  buildings  permanently 
accessible.  The  channeling  and  pocketing  of  buildings  for  electric  light  or 
power  wires,  teleiihotie,  telegraiih,  or  signaling  .'System  wiring  Is  desirable; 
all  wiring  to  be  according  to  latest  edition  of  the  "National  Electrical  Code.". 

Provide  substantial  firewall  cut-offs  from  .shaving  vaults,  dry  kilns,  bniler 
houses,  to  adjoining  planing  mills  or  other  buildings. 

Skylights  should  be  made  of  wired  glass  in  metal  frames  in  accordance  with 
standard  requirements  or  protected  from  sparks  by  screen  guards  sui»ported  on 
iron  frames. 

13 


14  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

Fireproof  or  fire-resistinj?  roofing  materials  are  recommended  to  be  used. 

The  use  of  wooden  unventilated  closets  for  men's  clothes  Is  not  approved. 
Well  ventilated  metal  closets  or  lockers  to  be  kept  away  from  wood  structural 
material  are  i-ecommended  for  workmen's  clothing  and  tools. 

It  is  recommended  that  separate  buildings  be  provided,  wherever  possible,  at 
shop  plants  for  men's  clothes  lockers,  wash  rooms,  etc.,  in  order  to  keep  this 
linzni'd  out  of  main  shop  buildings. 

FiKE  DOOKS. 

Fire  doors  are  used  to  protect  openings  in  fire  walls.  They  should  be  hung 
on  both  sides  of  the  wall  and  should  be  arranged  to  close  automatically.  Only 
doors  and  hardware  incidental  thereto  which  are  approved  and  bear  the  label 
of  the  Underwriters'  Laboratories  should  be  used.  Contracts  should  specifically 
require  this  as  unlabeled  doors  and  hardware  are  seldom  satisfactory  either 
from  the  fire-stopping  standpoint  or  fi-om  that  of  maintenance.  Fire  doors  and 
shutters  should  be  constructed  and  installed  in  accordance  with  the  National 
Board  rules. 

In  installing  fire  doors  particular  attention  should  be  given  to  the  lintels, 
frames,  and  sills.  There  are  a  variety  of  methods  and  materials  which  may  be 
u.sed,  depending  on  the  circumstances,  but  it  should  be  borne  in  mind  that  the 
floor  on  one  side  of  the  wall  may  be  destroyed,  so  no  direct  connection  should 
be  made  to  the  floor  or  supiwrting  timbers. 

Where  the  door  opening  is  used  for  heavy  trucking  it  is  advisable  to  protect 
the  front  edge  of  the  door  with  sheet  metal  to  prevent  tearing  the  tin. 

Fire  doors  should  normally  be  kept  closed  but  where  conditions  require  the 
frequent  use  of  the  opening  they  may  be  held  open  by  a  counterweight  with  one 
or  more  fusible  links  or  other  device  which  will  detach  the  weight  when  sub- 
jected to  heat  allowing  the  door  to  close  automatically.  The  link  should  be  in 
the  door  opening.  Special  approved  automatic  releases  may  be  used.  Home- 
made links  should  not  be  used  as  they  can  not  be  depended  on  to  fuse  at  the 
proper  temperature. 


CARE  OF  PROPERTY. 

BEING  RULES  FOR  DIMINISHING  FIRE  HAZARDS. 

In  shops  and  other  large  properties  or  even  single  buildings  a  competent  em- 
ployee should  be  appointed,  with  authority,  who  sliould  inspect  all  parts  thor- 
oughly and  regularly  to  see  that  the  premises  are  kept  clean  and  free  from  any 
feature  which  might  cause  fire. 

Standard  covered  metal  receptacles  should  be  provided  for  ashes,  rubbish, 
greasy  and  oily  rags  and  waste,  torches  and  small  oil  supplies;  and  rubbish, 
ashes,  and  sweepings  should  not  be  allowed  to  accumulate  on  property,  but 
should  be  disposed  of  daily.  The  use  of  wood  boxes  and  barrels  for  these  pur- 
poses should  be  prohibited.  Oily  clothing  should  be  kept  hung  up  in  metal 
lockers. 

All  machinery,  especially  the  journals,  and  space  underneath  should  be  kept 
clean;  di;ip  pans  should  be  provided  for  all  journals  and  gear  wheels;  never 
use  sawdust  for  absorbing  oil;  drip  pans  should  be  cleaned  frequently,  espe- 
cially in  woodworking  mills,  as  "the  dust  saturated  with  some  kinds  of  oil  is 
subject  to  spontaneous  ignition;  all  belts  should  be  examined  to  prevent  fric- 
tion, especially  against  combustible  materials;  all  bearings  should  be  watched 
for  heating;  the  babbitt  in  loose  pulleys  should  not  be  allowed  to  show  sigus 
of  wear. 


FIKE   PROTECTION    FOE   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  15 

Forges  and  furnaces  should  have  hoods  or  shields  over  them ;  wooden  floors 
sh(»nld  not  be  permitted  around  forges  or  anvil  blocks  and  woodwork  kept  at 
•least  four  feet  distant  or  protected  by  asbestos  or  metal  with  air  space ;  tire  set- 
ting should  be  on  a  concrete  or  brick  floor ;  portable  oil  tanks  should  be  built 
specially  strong  and  special  attention  given  to  safety  appliances  guarding  both 
life  and  property. 

All  woodworking  mills  should  have  shavings  and  sawdust  blower  or  exhaust 
systems. 

The  woodwork  of  the  interior  of  shop  buildings  should  be  kept  whitewashed. 
or  treated  with  lire  retardent  paint. 

Oil  lamps  should  not  l)e  filled  and  trimmed  after  dark  or  near  a  fire,  and  care 
should  be  taken  to  keep  surroundings,  where  such  work  is  done,  free  of  oil  sat- 
uration, by  having  metal  trays  or  metal  covered  stands  provided  on  which  to  do 
that  work. 

All  oils,  paints,  varnishes,  and  similar  compounds  should  be  kept  in  special 
outside  building  provided  for  the  purpose.  A  day's  supply  only  should  be 
allowed  outside  of  stock  house,  kept  in  metal  receptacles.  Si)ecial  provision 
should  be  made  for  storage  of  gasoline,  benzine,  and  ether  highly  volatile  oils 
and  explosives,  apart  from  and  not  exposing  main  buildings.  Avoid  the  use  of 
gasoline,  benzine,  etc.,  as  far  as  possible.  If  no  suitable  substitute  can  be 
utilized  and  any  highly  volatile  oils  must  be  used,  they  should  be  used  only  iu 
restricted  quiintities,  by  daylight  only,  and  from  approved  safety  cans.  Main 
sui'ply  to  be  stored  as  indicated  in  special  rules. 

Braziers  and  furnaces  (f/amlcnc) .—^Yhen  not  in  use  should  be  kept  in  a  metal 
box  outside  of  main  buildings.  Should  be  filled  and  lighted  outside  of  build- 
ings. The  principal  hazard  is  carelessness  in  handling,  especially  in  sotting 
thcui  down  after  using  them.  Care  should  be  taken  to  see  that  only  approved 
devices  are  used. 

Smoking  should  be  firohibitod  and  signs  to  that  effect  conspicuously  posted. 
(See  special  article.) 

Sawdust  should  not  be  used  on  floors  an<l  in  spittoons;  .sand  may  bo  used. 
Use  preferably  noncombustilde  spittoons. 

Metal  receptacle  should  l)e  provided  for  stock  of  matches;  the  use  of  safety 
matches  only  is  rocommended.  Special  outside  structures  should  be  provided 
for  storage  of  large  quantities  of  carbide,  fusees,  .-ind  torpeiloes— they  should  be 
stored  separately — supplies  for  local  distribution  should  bo  kept  in  tight  boxes. 
(See  special  article.) 

:'appliets  of  clean  waste  shoukl  be  kept  in  metal  nr  uielal-linetl  wonden  recop- 
la'lfs  having  covers  to  close  automatically. 

Uope  should  be  kept  iu  metal  rt^-eptucles  i>rovided  with  a  cover. 

.Ml  fire  doors  and  shutters  sliould  l>e  closed  night.s,  Sundays,  and  holidays,  or 
whenever  it  Is  not  neces.sary  to  keep  them  open. 

Explosives  should  not  be  used  or  .stored  except  under  proscril)ed  conditions. 
(See  requirements  of  Interstate  Commerce  Counnission  for  trausiMirling  and 
storing.     See  also  bullfllns  of  I'.ureau  of  lOxpiosivi'S. ) 

In  large  freight  dejxtts  a  metal  or  met;il-line<i  bin  should  lie  provided  for 
packing  material;  Iraiks  both  inside  and  outside  of  biiildinsis  should  be  ia'i)t 
free  from  rubbish. 

Special  attention  should  be  given  to  the  storage  and  care  of  records  and  \>:\])oi' 
flies. 

Telegraph  and  telephone  wires  iu  buildings  should  be  properly  Insulated  and 
equipped  with  aj)provetl  protective  devices,  including  excessive  current  pro- 
tectors and  lightning  arrestor.s,  and  »!iould  bo  installed  throughout  iu  accord- 
ance with  standard  requirements. 


16  FIRE    PROTECTION    FOR    RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

See  Hint  iill  defocts  which  tend  to  hicrease  risk  of,  or  cjuise  fires,  are  given 
prompt  attention. 

Itolling  equipment  slionlcl  uot  be  stored  on  tracks  where  it  will  be  subjected  to 
exposure  from  buildings  longer  than  is  necessary.  Stored  rolling  equipment 
should  be  swept  clean,  doors  closed,  and  any  accumulations  of  rubbish,  dry  grass, 
etc.,  removed  from  around  same. 

Stored  cars  should  have  ample  facilities  for  prompt  removal  in  case  of  fire. 

Grass  and  weeds  near  wooden  bridges,  culverts,  trestles,  buildings,  snow 
fences,  or  piles  of  ties  or  timber,  must  be  kept  cut  and  burned ;  old  ties  must  be 
promptly  inspected  and  burned ;  drift-wood  and  other  rubbish  must  not  be 
allow^ed  to  accumulate  around  bridges,  trestles,  or  culverts.  The  regular  mow- 
ing to  be  done  strictly  in  accordance  with  instructions. 

Lumber  should  not  be  piled  within  50  feet  of  any  building,  preferably  100  feet, 
where  exposures  warrant. 


The  proper  installation  of  all  lighting  systems  is  important;  electricity 
and  gas  are  preferred  forms  of  lighting  when  properly  installed. 

Other  forms  of  lighting  may  add  a  marked  hazard  (particularly  gasoline 
and  acetylene),  and  when  used  should  be  installed  only  in  accordance  with 
standard  rules  and  requirements,  and  under  special  permission. 

A  distinct  fire  hazard  is  attached  to  the  use  of  electricity  and  various 
electrical  devices;  all  installations  of  wiring  and  apparatus  should  be  well 
made  by  competent  persons  and  according  to  the  "  National  Electrical  Code  " 
and  inspected  and  approved  before  current  is  turned  on.  They  should  be 
regularly  examined  by  a  competent  electrician  and  any  necessary  repairs 
promptly  made  to  put  them  in  safe  condition,  or  otherwise  brought  and  kept 
up  to  standard.  Electrical  wiring  or  apparatus  should  not  be  tampered  with  or 
altered  except  by  electrician  with  authority  in  such  matters ;  special  care 
should  be  taken  not  to  overload  systems. 

Between  shelves  in  record  rooms  drop  cords  are  not  desirable ;  ceiling  sockets 
with  reflectors  should  be  used  with  the  switch  at  entrance  to  shelves.  When 
portable  lights  are  necessary,  use  standard  portable  cords  and  lamps  equipped 
with  approved  guard  and  handle. 

AVires  must  not  be  hung  on  nails,  gas  fixtures,  iron  hooks,  etc.,  but  properly 
supported  by  and  hung  from  prescribed  and  approved  insulators.  In  all  wir- 
ing, special  attention  should  be  paid  to  the  mechanical  execution  of  the  work ; 
careful  running,  connecting,  soldering,  taping,  and  securing  and  attaching  of 
fittings. 

Do  not  allow  incandescent  electric  lights  lo  come  in  contact  with  combustible 
material. 

Gas  fixtures  should  be  made  stationary ;  burners  should  be  protected  by 
wire  guards  or  globes  to  prevent  contact  with  woodwork  or  other  combustible 
material.  Protect  wopdwork  above  or  alongside  gas  jets  with  asbestos  board 
and  tin. 

Oil  lamps,  when  used,  should  be  rigidly  and  securely  supported  on  substantial 
metal  hangers  or  brackets.  The  use  of  glass  font  lamps  is  objectionable.  Metal 
lamps  should  be  used,  and  every  care  taken  to  keep  fi'om  paper  files  and  wood- 
work. Paper  or  pasteboard  shades  should  not  be  used  on  any  oil,  gas,  or 
electric  light  globes.    Metal  or  porcelain  should  be  used. 

The  use  of  torches  is  attended  with  danger,  and  should  not  be  permitted 
where  electricity  is  available.  Every  care  should  be  exercised  when  used,  both 
as  to  handling  and  storing.  When  not  in  use  they  should  be  kept  in  metal 
receptacles  and  not  in  wooden  closets. 


FIRE   PROTECTIOX   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  17 

The  use  of  open  liirhts  In  oil  houses,  paint  houses,  planing  mills,  grain  eleva- 
tors, etc..  and  where  inflammable  vapors  or  dust  are  present  should  be  prohib- 
ited. The  use  of  vapor-proof  incandescent  lamps  is  recommended  in  such 
places. 

Heating  and  Powicr. 

Tlie  proper  installation  of  all  heating  apparatus  is  important ;  the  following 
recommendations  are  made  relating  to  same: 

Steam  pipes  should  be  properly  supporteil  and  kept  awaj'  from  woodwork  and 
should  be  properly  bushed  where  passing  tlvrough  woodwork.  Greasy  and  oily 
waste  or  other  inflammable  material  should  be  kept  away  from  the  same  and 
clothing  should  not  be  permitted  to  hang  on  or  near  same.  The  overhead  method 
of  steam  piping  is  preferred. 

Stoves  should  be  securely  erected  with  an  air  space  beneath,  and  set  on 
either  stone,  cemented  brick,  or  metal  mats  of  desirable-  thickness,  and  near-by 
woodwork  protected  by  metal  and  asbestos  board ;  stovepipes  should  be 
securely  fastened  and  riveted.  All  combustible  material  mu.st  have  proper 
clearance  and  protection  from  stovepipes,  particularly  v.here  they  pass  through 
wall.s,  partitions,  etc. 

The  use  of  gasolene  and  oil  stoves  or  ranges  for  cooking  or  heating  purposes 
should  be  pi'ohibitcd.  Gas  stoves,  when  used,  should  be  connected  with  gas 
supply  by  rigid  metal  piping. 

Chimneys  and  flues  should  be  substantially  and  carefully  constructed  and  not 
built  up  from  posts  or  joists.  Joists  sliould  not  be  permitted  to  run  into  the 
masonry  work.  All  smoke  pipes  should  run  direct  from  furnace  or  stove  to 
chinniey. 

All  joists  and  woodwork  should  be  protected  by  fireproof  covering,  metal 
and  asbestos  board,  or  by  allowing  sufhciont  air  space  between  them  and  all 
licaters  or  furnaces  and  their  pipes. 

IJoiler  plants  should  be  located  in  separate  detached  buildings,  where  prac- 
ti«able,  or  cut  off  from  main  building  by  division  wall.s,  extending  through  roof 
•  •r  in  fireproof  room,  as  provided  for  under  special  building  specifications  for 
Ills  class  of  property,     (See  special  article.) 

The  outside  brick  or  concrete  chiuuiey  or  metal  slack  is  preferable.  Around 
boiler  stack.s,  If  of  iron  and  if  built  up  from  inside  building,  where  passing 
tihrougli  roof,  the  smokestack  opening  nnist  be  twice  the  diameter  of  the  stack; 
t)i«'re  should  be  u  clearance  from  all  w<todwork  equal  to  one-half  the  diameter 
of  stack  with  propt-riy  constructed  metal  collar  extending  above  and  below  all 
woodwork,  on«'  and  one  half  times  tlu;  diameter  of  stack. 

ClcarariCL-  from  boiler  should  be  at  least  0  feet  to  unprotected  comlnistible 
iiiictural  materials  above,  al  rear,  and  at  sides,  and  8  feet  in  front.     If  these 

rullfions  can  not  be  comi»lled  with,  all  combustible  surfaces  should  be  pro- 
i'  -ted  by  J-inch  asbeMos  hoard,  covered  with  sheet  metal,  with  air  si)nce  l)e- 
tweeii,  arranged  to  folif>w  (lie  siirface  of  I  lie  wood  .»<o  as  to  leave  no  concealed 
spaces. 

F>ynamos,  mot<irs.  and  electric  wiring  of  ail  kinds  must  bo  InslalhMl  ami  in.iin- 

ine<l  Hec»»rdlng  to  the  rules  of  tlie  ".N'allonal  Kleetrical  (Jode." 

Where  fuel  oil  is  use<l  for  heating  furnaces,  the  entire  equliiment  should 
'< inform  to  riK'ommendatlons  of  the  National  Kii"  l'r<,ii<ii.,i,  .\s.sociation  and 
Kaiiway  Fire  Protection  Associntion. 


FIRE-FIGHTING    SERVICE   AND   APPARATUS. 

Tile  inslallation  of  approved   lire-tighiing  de\i(es,   siidi   as  aiilniiiatif  sjirin- 
kleis,   jirnperly  constructed  standpiiies  with   hose  attached,   water  mains   and 
SI.jUo"— 19 2    . 


18         FIRE  PROTECTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

tire  hyclrauts,  fire  hose,  fire  pumps,  chemical  extinguishers,  water  casks,  and 
fire  pails,  with  empk>,vees  formed  into  brigades,  trained  iu  the  use  and  handling 
of  same,  and  regularlj^  drilled,  are  of  the  utmost  value. 

From  whatever  source  water  for  fire  purposes  is  obtained,  the  supply  sJiould 
be  ample  and  constant.  Underground  water  mains  for  fire-hydrant  systems 
sliould  be  cast  iron,  laid  in  complete  circuit  and,  where  the  system  is  extensive, 
should  be  gridironed  to  afford  circulation,  never  be  less  than  six  inches  "in  diam- 
eter, and  should  never  be  run  under  buildings.  They  should  be  buried  deep 
enough  in  ground  to  prevent  injury  from  surface  and  freezing.  All  inside 
hose  pipe  lines  should  be  controlled  by  outside  valves. 

A  competent  employee  should  be  designated  in  all  large  properties  whose 
duty  shall  be  to  inspect  thoroughly  and  regularly  all  apparatus  provided  to  ex- 
tinguish fire,  alarm  systems,  etc. ;  good  order  and  condition  of  these  devices  is 
necessary  that  they  may  be  depended  upon.  They  should  also  be  regularly 
tested. 

Fire  apparatus,  including  pumps,  should  not  be  used  for  other  purposes ;  its 
use  and  location  should  be  known  by  all  employees. 

Fire  pumps  should  preferably  be  located  in  fireproof  houses  beyond  reach  of 
fire  from  other  buildings,  and  should  be  constantly  in  condition  for  immediate 
and  protracted  use  at  their  full  capacity. 

The  use  of  frost-proof  fire  hydraii^ts  with  at  least  two  outlets,  with  separate 
hose  gates  on  each,  is  recommended.  Hydrants  should  be  placed  far  cnf'Ugh, 
generally  50  to  75  feet,  from  building  to  prevent  their  being  injured  by  f;illing 
walls  or  being  otherwise  rendered  inaccessible. 

Post  indicator  valves  should 'be  used  to  control  underground  water  supplies 
in  preference  to  sunken  ones  covered  with  traps.  If  indicator  posts  are  not 
feasible,  valves  to  he  located  in  valve  pits,  and  to  be  of  the  outside  screw  and 
yoke  pattern,  the  location  of  such  valves  to  be  plainly  marked  by  signs. 

Water  meters  in  fire-service  mains  are  detrimental  to  flow  of  water.  If 
their  use  is  unavoidable  only  detector  meters  installed  on  a  by-pass  should  be 
used  and  an  approved  gate  valve  placed  in  the  direct  connection. 

Care  should  be  exercised  in  the  treatment  of  li<  ?;> ;  it  sjiould  be  regularly 
tested  (except  linen)  and  drained  and  kept  in  well  ventilated  houses  or 
properly  reeled  or  folded  on  racks  when  not  in  use.     (See  special  article.) 

Water  barrels  and  fire  pails  should  be  kept  filled  with  water  at  all  times  and 
salt  added  hi  winter  to  prevent  freezing.     (See  special  article.) 

Chemical  extinguishers  should  be  protected  from  freezing  and  recharged  at 
least  ance  a  year  with  record  of  same  kept  on  a  card  attached  to  machine.  (See 
special  article.) 

Pails  of  clean,  dry  sand  (with  hand  scoops  for  throwing)  and  carbon  tetra 
chloride  type  of  lire  extinguisher  are  recommended  where  oils,  paints  or 
inflammable  liquids  are  stored. 

Designated  locomotives  in  yard  service  are  recommended  to  be  equipped  with 
special  fire  exting-uishing  apparatus  for  service  in  case  of  fire. 

All  fire  hydrants,  valves  and  connections  should  be  regularly  inspected,  especi- 
ally in  winter,  to  guard  against  freezing.  They  should  be  occasionally  tested, 
except  in  freezing  weatlier. 

The  loss  of  a  few  minutes  in  sending  in  an  alarm  of  fire  may  cause  consider- 
able additi>;nal  loss.  I■ri^ate  fire  alarms  are  recommended  so  that  the  privave 
brigades  may  get  into  service  promptly.  Where  located  in  a  city,  a  public  fire 
ahum  b<'X  and  key  should  lie  located  at  or  near  premises  so  that  no  time  may 
be  lost  in  getting  assisiiince  from  city  department. 

To  secure  regular  and  systematic  inspection. of  property  during  nights,  Sun- 
day<,  holidays,  or  such  times  as  it  is  not  in  operation,  reliable  watcluuca  sliou'd 
be  maintained  whose  rounds  should  be  recorded  on  an  approved  clock  system ; 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILRO.VD  PROPERTIES.  19 

rounds  to  be  made  at  least  every  hour  aud  a  siifficient  number  of  stations  pro- 
vided to  insure  tbeir  visiting  all  portions  of  property.    They  should  be  specially 
Instructed  in  the  location  and  use  of  fire  extinguishing  apparatus. 
Only  approved  safety  lanterns  or  electric  lamps  should  be  used  by  watcl.nien. 

IN  GENERAL. 

All  employees  in  charge  of  property  should  be  held  responsible  for  the  carv.\  - 
Ing  out  of  such  si)eeific  rules  and  regulations  as  may  be  promulgated  to  enforci' 
the  above  care  and  protection  of  proportj'. 


SELF-INSPECTION  WITH  REFERENCE  TO  FIRE  PREVENTION  AND 

PROTECTION. 

Self-inspection  promotes  good  housekeeping  and  means  that  you  must  per- 
sonally make  investigation  of  conditions  by  Inspecting  or  appoint  some  one, 
whom  you  can  hold  responsible  and  in  whom  you  have  confidence,  to  do  it 
for  you. 

Large  suras  of  money  are  paid  for  fire  protection  apparatus,  which  is  only 
waiting  In  its  latent  power  to  give  an  adequate  return  in  case  of  fire.  Water 
mains  with  fire  hydrants  and  pumps  aud  sprinkler  systems  cost  thousands  of 
dollars;  fire  hose,  nozzles,  fire  extinguishei's,  water  barrels  and  fire  pails  and 
sundry  apparatus  for  fire  fighting  run  into  large  outlays.  Irretrievable  in 
event  of  fire  is  the  money  spent  if  the  hydrant  has  -no  wrench  or  is  in  an 
inoperative  condition,  the  pump  out  of  order,  the  sprinkler  system  with  an 
unknown  closed  valve,  the  hose  with  a  weak  spot,  the  barrel  empty,  and  the 
biirket  not  filled  or  near  water.^ 

Large  capital  has  iieen  invested  in  buildings  and  their  contents,  and  large 
lia))ilities  are  Involved  by  transportation  lines,  all  of  which  has  to  be  safe- 
gui^rded.  Very  few  buildings  can  be  classed  as  "  fireproof  "  and  few  can  with- 
stand a  severe  fire;  therefore  it  becomes  necessary  to  prevent  a  fire  from 
Kt.'irting  or  having  started,  to  control  it  in  its  incipiency. 

Tlie  first  step  in  conserving  property  under  yoin*  care  is  that  of  fire  pre- 
vention ;  the  -second,  fire  protection.  In  theory  one  follows  the  other ;  in  prac- 
ti**^  both  are  of  equal  imi)ortance,  for  statistics  show  that  a  large  percentage 
of  fires  are  preventable,  the  rest  due  to  inherent  causes;  therefore  the  problem 
Is  to  n'du<'e  the  pnnentnble  fires  and  i»rovlde  adequate  fire  protection  for  all. 

The  best  fire  protection  ajjparatus  and  flre-resisting  building  stand  for  naught 
unless  they  are  kept  In  good  condition. 

Tlie  mere  fact  that  fire  hazards  may  have  been  safeguarded  and  fire  protec- 
tion may  have  been  installed  originally  In  full  accordance  with  standard 
requirements.  Is  no  guaranty  that  these  conditions  will  remain.  Proper  upkeei*  is 
neeessary.  and  fretpient  self-insj»ection  is  tlui  logical  method  of  obtaining 
satisfactory  results  so  that  there  may  be  no  rellection  upon  individuals.  Ex- 
cuses are  of  no  value  after  a  property  ha.s  been  destroyed. 

The  following  are  brief  suggestions  for  organizing  a  local  inspection  service 
of  your  property  whatever  the  size: 

<^;et  In  sympatliy  with  the  proposition  to  prevent  "fire  lo3.ses." 

Head  literature  pertaining  to  the  subject,  which  Is  readily  obtainable  ami 
gives    valuable    suggestions. 

If  possible  join  a  fire  prevention  nssorlntion  to  reap  the  benefits  of  their  ex- 
periences. 

Issue  rules  and  notices  In  the  shape  of  posters,  circulars,  etc.,  and  require  a 
rigid  enforcement  of  rules. 


20         riEE  PROTECTION  FOB  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

Hold  forenioii  of  each  shop  responsible  for  its  condition  as  to  cleanliness 
and  fire-protection  apparatus. 

Prohibit  smoking  throughout  your   property. 

Look  into  jiour  exposure  hazards.  Sometimes  an  old  inflammable  building 
will  jeopardize  a  large  valuable  structure  more  than  the  operation  in  that 
structure  itself.  Fire  walls  and  door  and  window  protection  afford  safe- 
guards. 

Advocate  fire-resistant  construction  for  new  buildings. 

Locate  new  buildings  as  far  away  from  other  buildings  as  feasible.  Con- 
gested conditions   are  breeders  of  conflagrations. 

Appoint  a  healthy  and  reliable  night  watchman,  preferably  one  who  does  not 
smoke,  and  require  him  to  register  his  tours  on  an  approved  clock  system. 

Appoint  a  competent  active  man  for  inspector.  He  need  not  necessarily 
be  relieved  of  all  other  duties.  Your  fire  chief  would  be  best.  Give  him  au- 
thority over  the  fire  protection  apparatus  and  authority  to  require  minor 
hazards  to  be  removed. 

Local  Inspector's  Duties. 

Make  a  written  weekly  report  of  all  conditions.  Report  verbally  and  imme- 
diately any  important  hazard  or  bad  condition. 

Make    recommendations   for   betterment. 

Make  daily,  or  at  least  weekly,  inspections  of  entire  property,  inside  and 
outside. 

Examine  all  heating  appliances. 

Examine  all  fire  hydrants. 

Pill   water  barrels. 

See  that  water  barrels  have  buckets. 

Fill   water   buckets. 

Examine  and  recharge  chemical  fire  extinguishers. 

Keep    fire    hose    in   condition. 

Have  fire  pump  tested  weekly. 

Have  fire  alarm  tested  weekly. 

Arrange    fire    drills. 

Test  fire  hose  under  pressure  yearly. 

Examine  automatic  or  other  sprinkler  installation. 

Talk  fire  prevention  and  fire  protection. 

See  that  wrenches  and  all  minor  equipment  are  at  fire  hydrants. 

Se«  that  each  installation  of  hose  has  hose  spanners. 

See  that  all  water  valves  are  properly  closed  or  opened  as  the  requirements 
may   demand. 

Test  fire  apparatus  on  locomotives. 

Examine   roof  ladders. 

See  that  all  oily  waste  has  been  placed  in  proper  receptacles  and  daily  dis- 
posed  of. 

Look  for  stray  pieces  of  oily 'waste  in  out-of-way  places. 

Criticize  conditions  when   necessary. 

See  that  roadways  are  accessible  to  fire  department. 

Examine  electric  fuses  and  require  the  removal  of  unprotected  or  nonstandard 
connections. 

Cause  the  removal  of  birds'  nests  from  roof  eaves  and  rafters. 

Examine  woodwork  around  stacks,  furnaces,  stoves,  and  steam  pipes. 

See  that  fire  prevention  and  protection  rules  are  obeyed. 

See  that  shavings  and  sawdust  are  kept  away  from  heating  appliances. 

See  that  small  oil  supplies  are  properly  'kept  in  suitably  protected  recep- 
tacles. 


FIRE  PROTECTION  FOR  EAILROAD  PROPERTIES.         21 

See  that  all  fire  doors  and  shutters  are  unobstructed,  that  tliey  are  in  good 
rei'air  and  kept  closed  at  night  or  when  plant  is  not  iu  operation. 

Examine  clothes  lockers,  closets,  and  other  catch-alls  and  remove  torches, 
oils,  and  cotton  waste. 

:Make  men  acquainted  with  location  of  nearest  fire  alarm  and  its  operation. 

The  duties  of  the  inspector  as  set  forth  are  given  only  as  an  outline  and 
will  increase  in  all  directions  as  the  man  hecames  experienced  and  takes  the 
initiative.  The  time  he  consumes  will  vary  with  the  size  of  the  property ;  a  few 
minutes  in  a  freight  warehouse  to  an  entire  day  in  a  largj?  terminal  or  shop 
plant  is  well  expendal,  as  it  produces  results. 


RECOMMENDATIONS    IN    CONNECTION    WITH    CHIMNEYS,    FLUES, 
STOVES,  AND  FURNACES. 

Special  attcutiun  siiV'uld  be  given  the  construction  and  installation  of  chim- 
neys, flues,  furnaces,  and  stoves  used  for  heating  buildings  and  pipes  leading 
tlierefrom  and  regular  examination  thereof  and  their  surroundings  before  being 
put  into  service. 

Constant  operation  of  heating  devices  under  intense  heat  in  time  will  estab- 
lish deterioration  of  their  parts. 

Reason:  Radiated  heat  is  of  an  intensely  penetrating  nature  and  will 
eventually  set  fire  to  wood  or  other  combustible  material  which  is  heated  to  a 
temperature  uncomfortable  to  the  touch  of  the  bare  hand.  An  air  or  ventilating 
space  between  the  source  of  heat  or  lieat  shield  and  the  combu.stible  material 
lends  to  carry  away  the  heated  particles  of  air  by  circulation. 

Definitions. 

Chimnoy:  Walls,  usnally  vertical,  inclosing  the  passageway  for  products  of 
ciinibustion  from  a  fire. 

Flue  is  the  opening  through  wliich  smoke  and  gases  escape. 

Snwjke  pipe :  Pipe  comiections  from  stove,  range,  or  heater  to  chimney. 

Slov»'pii)e:  See  smoke  pipe. 

Chimneys. 

liuild  all  diinuieys  large  enough  to  give  a  sepanite  flue  for  each  fire. 

CbinuK'y  fines  should  be  ample  in  size  and  carried  as  nearly  straight  as 
possible  from  their  foundations  to  at  least  3  feet  above  the  highest  projection 
of  roof. 

('liimufys  must  be  buiil  fnim  the  pniuiid  or  siii.porled  tlicrefnim  witli  lin^ 
pr(M.f  nialcrial,  and  none  of  their  weiglit  should  be  carried  by  anything  except 
tlu'ir  foinidations.  (^binuieys  may  form  part  of  a  l.'J-incli  or  more  brick  wall, 
Iti  whirli  case  chliimcy  shoidd  not  be  corbeled  out  more  tJian  8  inches  from 
wall,  and  that  corbeling  should  consist  of  at  least  live  courses  of  brick. 

CiniHlriKtinn. — Sound  hard  l)ri'k  or  reinforced  concrete  at  least  8  inches 
thick  and  lined  continuously  througliont  witli  1-incli  terracotta  pipe  or  fire  clay. 

I»o  not  run  floor  Jf»lHt«  or  oilier  woodwork  lnt<j  chimneys  or  Hues,  nor  allow 
Wood  casing,  lathing,  or  furring  within  2  Inche.s  of  brickwork. 

No  vent  pipe  from  gas  npidlances  should  enter  same  fine  used  by  mi  o|)en 
flanie  fire. 

SnK)ke-i>ipe  openings  slioubl  only  Ite  closed  witli  a  light  metal  \\\\>^  cap  after 
smoke  pi|M^  has  l>ocn  removed. 

S.MOKEPIPKS. 

Smoke  pi[>es  should  l>e  constructed  of  substnntial  metal  ami  be  spark  tight. 
Should  run  directly  from  furnace  or  stove  to  chimney  and  be  firmly  held  in 
place  by  metal  ttiimble  and  plaster. 


22         FIRE  PEOTECTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

Lons  runs  of  pipe  are  dangerous  nnd  should  be  avoided. 

Be  careful  of  joints  between  lengths  of  pipes. 

Smoke  pipes  should  preferably  not  pas.s  through  floors,  attics,  or  unused 
rooms,  and  never  through  closets. 

Shall  not  be  placed  near  any  woodwork. 

^\'here  pipes  pass  through  lath  and  plaster  or  wood  partitions  and  ceilings 
thoy  nm.st  he  guarded  by  galvanized-iron  ventilating  collars  at  least  one  and 
one-half  times  the  diameter  of  the  pipes,  or  a  concrete  panel  about  18  inches 
square,  depending  o^i  spacing  of  studding  and  diameter  of  pipe,  incasing  smoke 
pipe  so  as  to  leave  an  air  space  of  not  less  than  1  inch  around  it. 

Where  it  is  necessary  that  pipes  pass  through  wooden  i»oofs  in  the  absence 
of  brick  chimneys  they  should  be  guarded  in  the  same  manner  as  where  passing 
through  wooden  partitions. 

Smoke  pipe  must  be  securely  fa.stened  to  stove  or  furnace. 

Stoves. 

All  stoves  for  heating  purposes  should  be  free  from  cracks,  have  well-fitting 
doors,  and  be  supported  on  legs  off  the  floor. 

Should  be  placed  3  feet  from  lath  and  plaster  or  woodwork,  or  if  same  is 
protected  by  a  metal  shield  with  an  air  space  or  asbestos,  then  distance  shall 
not  be  less  than  18  inches. 

A  metal  mat  should  be  placed  under  and  to  extend  at  least  18  inches  from 
all  sides  of  all  stoves  that  are  placed  on  wooden  floors. 

Stoves  should  not  be  used  in  woodworking  or  paint  shops,  paint  storehouses, 
oil  houses,  or  where  flammable  vapors  or  dust  are  present. 

Stoves  without  legs,  such  as  laundry  stoves,  should  not  set  directly  on  com- 
bustible floors ;  use  a  course  of  bricks  or  a  4-inch  concrete  slab  laid  on  sheet 
metal  and  asbestos  board  over  wooden  floors. 

Sand-drying  stoves,  where  used,  should  be  located  in  incombustible  rooms. 

Gas  Stoates. 

All  woodwork  under  and  near  gas  stoves  must  be  covered  with  metal  with  an 
air  space. 

Gas  connections  must  be  of  rigid  metal  pipe;  never  use  rubber  or  other  tubing. 
Large  gas  appliances  must  be  connected  to  an  independent  flue  by  a  vent  pipe. 

Furnaces. 

Furnaces  should  be  installed  only  on  noncombustible  floors. 

Top  of  furnace  should  be  not  less  than  18  inches  below  a  combustible  ceiling 
or  floor  beam.  Combustible  material  at  this  distance  should  be  protected  with 
sheet  metal  with  an  air  space  underneath  or  by  hard  asbestos  board  following 
contour  of  surfafe  to  be  protected. 

Top  of  furnace  should  have  an  insulating  covering,  such  as  sand  or  asbestos. 

Woodwork  within  4  feet  of  furnace  must  be  protected  with  sheet  metal 
with  air  space  or  hard  asbestos  board.  No  woodwork  should  be  permitted  luider 
any  circumstances  within  2  feet. 

Cold-air  boxes  of  all  hot-air  furnaces  should  be  made  of  incombustible  ma- 
terial particularly  for  first  6  or  8  feet  from  furnace. 

HoT-AiB  Pipes. 

Hot-air  pipes  where  passing  through  combustible  partitions  or  floors  should 
be  of  double-pipe  construction  with  1-inch  air  space  between  the  pipes,  or  cov- 
ered with  heavy  sheet  asbestos. 


FIRE   PEOTECTIOX   FOB   EAILROAD   PBOPERTIES.  23 

Woodwork  within  6  inclies  of  hot-air  pipes  must  be  protecterl  with  incom- 
bustible material.  No  wood  allowed  under  any  circumstances  closei-  than  3 
Inches. 

Hot- Air  Registers. 

Woodwork  around  register  boxes  must  be  removed  from  and  protected  as 
recommended  for  hot-air  pipes. 

Registers  placed  on  combustible  floors  must  have  a  stone  or  iron  border 
firmly  set  in  mortar. 

SXEAil    AND    IIoT-WATEK    PiPES. 

All  woodwork  less  than  2  inches  from  pipes  must  be  protected  by  a  metal 
shield  or  collar,  in  which  case  it  should  not  be  closer  than  1  inch. 

i'ipes  conveying  main  steam  supply  should  be  wrapped  with  magnesia  or 
asbestos  covering. 

General. 

Ashes  should  not  be  stored  in  wooden  boxes  or  barrels — use  metal  containers. 

Do  not  use  a  wooden  bin  for  ash  storage;  brick  or  incombustible  constructed 
bins  are  safe. 

Do  not  mix  old  papers  or  rubbish  with  ashes. 

Keep  space  around  fire  free  of  all  combustible  materials. 

Steam  or  hot-water  radiators  and  pipes  must  not  be  used  for  drying  racks 
for  rags,  clothes,  and  other  inflammable  material. 

Do  not  permit  rubbish  to  accumulate  behind  steam  coils  and  radiators. 


STEAM  MAINS  AND  STEAM  PIPES. 

Pijies  conveying  main  supply  of  steam  should  be  wrapped  with  niagnesia  or 
asbestos  covering,  and  where  passing  through  wood  psxi'titions  should  have  a 
clear  space  of  at  least  T  inch.  Steam-pii)e  covering  should  preferably  be  car- 
ried in  H  single  piece  tiirough  floors  and  partilions. 

It  is  advisable  to  examine  covering,  which  may  be  dune  with  a  penknife. 
Very  often  it  will  be  found  tliat  a  cheap  covering  of  combustible  material  has 
been  substituted. 

Sleam  mains  should  not  rest  on  combustible  material;  should  have  metal 
hangers  to  support  them,  and  the  outer  covuring  should  bt;  fastened  to  jiipe 
with  brass  bands. 

Steani  heating  piix's  sbould  rest  on  metal  hangers  or  sujiftorts,  and  where 
Itassing  througb  conibnslible  floors  or  i)artitions  sliould  hav(>  at  least  a  one- 
lialf  inch  air  space  from  combustible  material  and  a  metal  collar  or  tliiniblc. 

Steam  radiators  and  steam  pipes  nnist  not  l)e  used  as  receptacles  on  whirb 
to  dry  rags,  clothes,  or  other  combustible  material. 

When'  radiators  are  placed  in  window  recesses,  or  concealed  spaces,  care 
slionid  lie  taken  to  see  that  such  places  have  a  noncomliustible  lining  and  amj)Ie 
air  (•i^culat^on.     These  Indostires  should  be  denupd  and  Icopt  free  From  dusi. 

Ail  steam  pljies  slinnbl  ix'  so  instalbMi  that  they  dan  not  cumc*  in  contact  with 
comliusiibie  material  of  any  character. 


24  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOE   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

GENERAL  RECOMMENDATIONS  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  BOILER 
HOUSES,  BOILER  SETTINGS,  AND  BOILER  STACKS. 

The  location  of  boilers  furnishing  steam  for  power  warrants  especial  con- 
sideration, for  their  operation  is  one  essentially  requiring  no  delays  for  the 
economical  running  of  the  plant. 

Three  methods  of  installation  are  given,  the  preferable  ones  being  No.  1  and 
No.  2  in  order.  No.  3  is  not  approved  for  new  installations,  but  is  given  as  a 
recommendation  to  make  old  boiler  settings  and  surroundings  safer. 

No.  1. 

Detached  "fireproof"  boiler  Jioiise,  cons^tructed  with  brick,  stone,  or  con- 
crete parapeted  walls ;  steel  roof  truss  covered  with  metal,  reinforced  concrete 
or  tile  roofing  and  noncombustible  floors.  Wall  openings  exposed  by  other 
buildings  to  be  protected  with  standard  fire  doors  and  shutters  or  approved 
Avired  glass  in  metal  frames.  Incombustible  wall  or  roof  ventilators  should 
be  installed  for  proper  ventilation  for  which  purpose  also  roofs  should  be 
elevated  well  above  boilers. 

No.  2, 

Boiler  lioiises  attached  to  main  building  to  be  practically  the  same  fireproof 
construction  as  given  in  No.  1  with  the  exception  that  party  wall  between  boiler 
room  and  main  building  should  be  at  least  18  inches  in  thickness  and  be 
parapeted  3  feet  or  more  above  roof  o-f  main  building  and  in  all  cases  make  a 
complete  cut-off  from  exposed  wooden-roof  monitors.  This  wall  to  have  not 
more  than  one  opening,  in  which  case  opening  is  to  be  protected  by  a  standard 
automatic  fire  door  each  side. 

No.  3. 

Boiler  installed  in  hvUding  not  ''fireproof.''' — Floor  construction  to  be  en- 
tirely of  incombustible  material  to  extend  8  feet  in  front  and  4  feet  at  sides 
and  rear  of  boiler. 

Clearance  between  boiler  and  combustible  structural  material  must  be  main- 
tained ;  4  feet  above  steam  dome,  4  feet  at  sides  and  rear,  and  8  feet  in  front. 
In  existing  installations,  when  the  required  clearance  can  not  be  observed,  all 
exposed  woodwork  must  be  protected  witli  a  layer  of  asbestos  board  and  sheet 
metal,  in  extreme  instances  with  an  air  space  between,  same  to  follow  contour 
of  woodwork. 

Ceilings  above  boilers  inclosing  a  concealed  space  should  not  be  permitted. 

Means  of  ventilation  must  be  provided  to  carry  off  the  heat  from  under  roof. 

Smokestacks. 

The  outside  brick  chimney  or  metal  stack  is  preferable. 

Inside  metal  stacks  should  have  their  entire  weight  supported  on  a  brick  or 
concrete  foundation. 

Metal  stacks  passing  through  combustible  roofs  must  have  clearance  and 
metal  guards;  i.  e.,  all  woodwork  within  one-half  the  diameter  of  stack  to  be 
removed,  smokestack  opening  must  be  twice  the  diameter  of  the  stack  and  a 
metal  collar  one  and  one-half  times  the  diameter  be  placed  around  stack. 

The  height  of  stack  of  chimney  must  not  be  less  than  15  feet  above  roof  of 
building  of  which  it  is  a  part  or  that  of  the  nearest  adjoining  building. 


FIEE   PROTECTION    FOR    RAILROAD    PROPERTIES.  25 

Breeching. 

Jletal  breeching  must  have  same  clearance  on  all  sides  from  comlmstible 
structural  materials  as  required  for  boilers  in  installation  No.  3. 

Steam  Pipes. 

Main  supply  steam  pipes  must  be  wrapped  wilh  asbestos  or  magnesia  or  ap- 
proved insulating  covering  and  must  have  at  least  1-incli  clearance  from  wood- 
work. ■  ■ 

GENilKAL. 

Boiler  room  should  be  occupied  exclusively  for  steam-generating  purposes. 

Tops  of  boilei's  must  not  be  used  for  drying  combustible  materials. 

Dust  must  not  be  allowed  to  accumulate  on  top  of  boiler. 

Ashes  must  not  be  deposited  on  combustible  floors  and  must  be  removed  to 
outside  daily  and  not  allowed  to  come  in  contact  with  inflammable  material. 

Ashes  should  preferably  be  dampened  before  being  disposed  of. 

Oil  fuel,  if  usQd,  must  have  sui)ply  pipe  equipped  with  an  automatic  and 
manual  shut-off  valve  located  outside  of  building  in  addition  to  the  ordinary 
control  valves  at  burners. 

If  shavings  fuel  is  used,  extreme  care  must  be  <ised  in  preventing  shavings 
being  scattered  over  floor.  A  hot  coal  or  back  draft  on  boiler  is  liable  to  ignite 
them. 

Spark-arresting  devices  must  be  placed  on  all  stacks  and  chimneys  from 
boilers  using  wood,  shavings,  or  refuse  for  fuel. 


FOUNDRY  BUILDINGS. 

Construction. 

The  foundry  should  be  detached  or  properly  cut  off  from  other  buildings 
by  standard  fire  walls.  It  should  be  constructed  entirely  of  nonconibustible 
material. 

Floor  should  be  noucombuslible ;  walls  should  bo  brick,  concrete,  or  iron; 
roof  of  Iron  or  concrete  on  steel  truss  or  girders;  columns  of  steel  or  concrete. 
Tliere  .should  be  no  woodwork  of  any  kind  In  the  construction  of  building. 
Hoofs  of  nearby  or  adjoining  buildings  should,  where  po.ssible,  be  of  firo-rcslsting 
con.structlon  or  covered  with  metal. 

Common  Hazards. 

V:iii<>ii.s  fc.-itiin-s  (if  1m';ii.  iiglit.  and  power  should  be  as  safely  lnstallo<l  as  In 
the  onlinnry  nmnufacturing  building,  electric  light  and  power  Installations 
b«'ing  niado  In  afc(»nlanfe  with  the  re«piiroments  of  tlic  "National  Kloctrical 
Code,"    Electric  wiring  should  rrt'f»-'''f>hly  be  run  in  metul  conduit. 

SrKciAi-  Hazards. 


The  cupola  Is  n  common  cause  of  fire,  either  due  to  sitarks  or  excessive  heat 
Igniting  roof,  charging  platform,  or  other  combust iblo  material.  Flasks,  pat- 
terns., boards,  etc.,  should,  therefore,  not  even  temporarily  l)e  placed  In  the 
vicinity  of  cupola.  Cupola  platform  or  charging  floor  .shou'<l  !"•  '"'istructed 
of  iron  or  concrete. 


20  FIBE   PROTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

Chiinnoys  of  cupolas  slioiiUl  extend  at  least  10  feet  above  the  highest  point 
of  liny  roof  within  a  radius  of  50  feet,  and  no  woodwork  shall  be  within  3  feet 
of  any  part  of  such  device  or  its  chimney. 

CouE  Ovens. 

Should  be  entirely  of  fire-resl sting  construction. 

Flask  Stokage. 

Flasks  that  are  not  in  use  should  be  stored  in  a  detached  shed,  prefembly 
of  noncombustible  material.  They  should  not  be  stored  in  the  foundry  proper, 
but  after  using  and  before  placing  in  the  storage  shed  should  be  set  aside  to 
cool,  wooden  flasks  being  wet  down  after  molds  are  broken. 

Pattebn  Storage. 

Patterns  should  be  stored  in  a  fire-resistive  building  unexposed  by  other  prop- 
erty. Patterns  are  visually  of  considerable  value  and  combustible ;  the  store- 
house should  therefore  be  divided  into  small  sections  by  standard  fire  walls. 

Care  and  Maintenance. 

The  foundry  roof  in  the  vicinity  of  cupola,  if  not  of  fireproof  construction, 
should  be  examined  daily  >^fter  cupola  shuts  down  and. before  all  employees 
leave,  making  sure  that  no  hot  cinders  or  smoldering  embers  remain  thereon. 

Fire  Protection. 

This  class  of  property  should  be  afforded  as  adequate  protection  from  hy- 
drants and  hose  as  other  shop  buildings.  Interior  protection  of  standpipes 
and  hose,  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  water  barrels,  and  fire  pails  is  desirable. 

The  pattern  storehouse,  owing  to  the  large  value  involved  in  patterns,  should 
be  equipped  with  automatic  sprinklers. 


SHOP  PRACTICES. 

Inflammable  and  Explosive  Compounds  and  Liquids. 

The  use  in  railroad  shops  of  materials  containing  highly  inflammable  and 
explosive  ingredients  should  be  discouraged  as  far  as  possible  and  whe]:ever 
practicable  and  the  processes  will  permit,  safer  substitutes  of  nonexplosive  and 
uoninflammable  character  should  be  used.  The  standardization  of  safe  methods 
coupled  with  the  economies  incident  to  the  use  of  materials  in  various  processes 
should  be  given  every  consideration. 

The  relative  hazards  of  inflammable  volatiles  are  usually  determined  by  their 
flash  points.  The  flash  point  of  a  substance  is  the  ten  ;;?:::.....'  at  which  suffi- 
cient vapor  is  generated  to  cause  it  to  flash  without  igniting  the  liquid,  when  a 
small  flame  or  spark  is  brought  in  contact  therewith.  The  burning  or  fire  point 
of  a  liquid  is  somewhat  higher,  and  is  that  temperature  at  which  the  vapor 
given  off,  when  ignited,  will  coBtinue  to  burn. 

The  following  list  comprises  the  more  common  inflammable  volatiles: 


Acetone. 
Alcohol  (grain). 
Alcohol  (wood). 
Alcohol (denatured). 
Amy]  acetate  (banana  oil). 
Benzine. 
Benzole. 

C"olin)ibiau  spirits. 
Carbon  bisulphide. 


Collodion, 
Ether. , 
Gasoline, 
Lacquer, 
Naphtia. 
Petroleum  ether. 
Toluol. 
•Turpentine. 


FIRE   PROTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  27 

Materials  to  be  guarded  especially  are  many  forms  of  "  cleansers "  in  the 
reiiioval  of  paint  and  vamisb  from  passenger  coaches  and  locomotives  and 
their  parts. 

The  ingredients  and  dangers  of  all  patented  commercial  fluids  and  ooui- 
pounds  should  be  well  known  before  being  used  and  where  necessary  to  be  used, 
proper  precautions  should  be  taken  by  the  employees  handling.  Dangers  should 
be  .safely  guarded.  In  using  highly  volatile  substances  particular  attention 
should  be  given  to  keeping  all  open  lights  away,  and  approved  containers  for 
storage  and  handling  are  recounnended. 

special  attention  is  directed  to  the  dangers  that  might  arise  to  both  life  and 
property  in  the  following  processes : 

Passenger  coach  and  locomotive  cleaning  and  paint  removal  therefrom ;  tire 
heating  and  removing;  paint  burning:  cleaning  triple  valves;  lacquering,  etc. 

The  principal  point  Is  to  know  the  ingredients  of  the  materials  used  and 
stored  and  place  vyarning  signs  to  "  keep  lights  and  flame  away  "  where  highly 
volatile  oils  and  materials  are  used,  such  as  gasoline,  paint  and  varnish  re- 
movers, etc.,  and  store  and  handle  only  in  approved  containers. 

The  principal  hazards  of  shop  buildings  are: 

Soldering,  babbiting,  and  spring 
tempering. 


Heating. 
Blower  systems. 
Rivet  heaters. 
Oil  furnaces. 

Burning  or  cleaning  off  point. 
Glue  ppts. 
Lacquering. 

I.or-oniotive  tire  heating. 
Drying, 
lighting. 
Portable  forges. 


Tinners'  pots. 
Torches. 
Caul  boxes. 
Paints  and  oils. 
Upholstering. 
Hair  or  fiber  picking. 
Spontaneous  combustion  of  rags 
and  waste. 


FIRES  IN  COALING  STATIONS. 

Fires  originating  in  coaling  stations  used  for  coaling  locomotives  and  result- 
ing in  tolJil  losses  are  much  too  frequent. 

Jl^iny  have  been  througli  the  experience  of  fire,  luive  stood  by  ;iractically 
hilplcss,  and  have  seen  the  inconvenience  caused  and  the  conse(iueutial  ex- 
IM'Uses  until  a  new  structure  is  built. 

There  seems  to  be  no  reason  why  the  coaling  stations  built  in  the  future 
nhoiild  be  subject  to  fire  and  be  a  total  loss,  unless  it  can  be  attributed  t(t  the 
hai)it  of  looking  at  the  initial  costs  of  building  and  giving  no  attention  to  the 
retiiuneration  re<'e!ved  from  a  long  and  uninterrupted  .service. 

Tiio  priiifijial  causes  of  the  fires  Imvc  I)t'cii  H[)urks  lodging  in  innaninialtie 
building  material  and  birds'  nost.s,  smoking,  .spontaneous  ignition  of  oily  waste 
nnd  bituminous  coal,  electrical  defects,  gasoline  engines  and  their  exhaust 
pipes,  open  flame  torches,  an<l  oIIht  Corni.s  of  liazai^ls  attributed  to  carelessness 
and  exposure  fires. 

The  following  general  survey  of  three  cla.s.sos  of  coaling  .stations  is  given: 

f '1(11^8  1. — Wooden  constructed  trestle  and  approach  with  gravity  feed  directly 
to  tenders  or  to  bins,  .some  of  which  are  hou.sed  in. 

Fire  protection  usually  consists  of  a  few  water  barrels  and  buckets. 

Clans  2. — The  woofl  constructed  or  wood  frame  structure  with  corrugated 
iron  covered  elevator  hou.ses,  the  coal  being  hoisted  from  trnck  level  by  buckets, 


28  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

either  tlie  grab,  hand-filled,  or  belt  type,  and  dumped  in  bins,  from  which 
it  is  discharged  directly  into  the  tenders.  Steam,  gasoline,  or  electricity  is 
used  for  power,  and  in  some  few  instances  the  entire  power  plant  is  located 
in  a  detached  building,  while  in  others  only  the  steam  boiler  or  gasoline  engine 
is  detached. 

Protection :  Water  barrels  and  fire  pails,  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  inside 
and  outside  perforated  water  pipes,  open  sprinkler  heads,  dry  pipe  automatic 
sprinklers  and  hose  and  staudpipes.  The  amount  of  the  equipment  seems  to 
depend  upon  the  age  and  repair  of  the  building. 

Lighting :  Oil  torches  and  lanterns  and  electricity. 

Heating :  Coal  stoves  or  steam  in  laborers'  rest  room  and  engine  rooms. 

Fire  prevention  and  detection :  Various  rules  prohibiting  hazardous  practices 
and  watchman's  service. 

Fire  detection :  Automatic  thermostat  journal  and  sprinkler  alarms. 

Class  3. — Steel  frame,  corrugated  iron  covered,  and  the  concrete  and  steel 
structure  is  placed  in  this  class,  the  most  modern  being  the  type  provided  with 
self-cleaning  or  conical-shaped  bins,  which  have  no  covers  or  ledges  in  which 
dust  can  accumulate.  The  coal  is  handled  by  conveyer  buckets  operated  by 
electrical  machinery. 

Protection:  None,  except  possibly  chemical  extinguishers  for  fires  around 
the  electrical  apparatus. 

In  a  general  way  we  might  add  the  follo\Aiug  to  apply  particularly  to  classes 
1  and  2 : 

Hazard :  Sand  drying  with  coal  stoves  in  attached  building  or  near-by  sand 
houses. 

After  a  general  survey  ice  arrive  at  the  proposition  to  stop  fires  in  coaling 
stations: 

First.  Build  only  With  fire-resisting  materials,  thus  making  void  practically 
all  the  opportunity  for  serious  fire  or  total  loss  and  the  necessary  protection 
therefrom. 

Second.  Make  the  wooden-constructed  structures  as  safe  as  possible. 

A.  Where  they  are  unsafe,  antiquated,  and  expose  valuable  property,  replace 
with  modern  equipment  where  possible. 

B.  Prohibit  euginemen  using  blower  on  locomotive  while  standing  alongside. 

C.  Remove  all  birds'  nests,  patch  up  all  holes,  and  replace  rotted-out  timbers. 

D.  If  station  contains  a  men's  rest  room,  line  the  room  throughout  with  metal 
or  prohibit  practice  of  having  such  rooms,  attached  or  exposed. 

E.  Prohibit  the  use  of  open-flame  torches  and  lanterns.  Use  portable  electric 
la^nterns  only. 

F.  If  electric  lighted,  see  that  wires  are  in  conduit  and  conduit  securely 
fastened ;  that  inclosed  fuses  only  are  used ;  and  that  switch  is  either  snap  or 
inclosed  in  dust-proof  cabinet.  That  portable  electric  cords  are  heavily  rein- 
forced and  have  incandescent  lamps  protected  with  wire  cage  guards. 

In  general,  see  that  the  entire  electric  equipment  is  installed  according  to 
the  National  Electrical  Code. 

G.  Where  gasoline  engine  is  used  inside  the  building  for  power,  remove  it 
to  a  detached  shelter,  and  use  rope  drive  or  preferably  use  some  other  source 
of  power. 

H.  Condemn  the  stove  sand  drier  and  use  steam  if  possible;  if  not,  then  be 
sure  the  stack  frojn  stove  has  proper  clearance  from  all  woodwork  and  that 
sand  bin  around  stove  is  made  of  concrete.  Where  possible,  drier  should  be  in 
a  detached  building,  not  exposing  coaling  station. 


FIEE   PEOTECTION   FOR   EAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  29 

T.  If  a  steam  boiler  is  used  inside  it  Avould  be  preferable  to  have  It  relocated 
in  a  detached  house.  In  any  event,  see  that  stack  and  boiler  has  proper  clear- 
ance from  all  woodwork. 

J.  Provide  approved  self-closing  metal  cans  for  oily  v.aste  in  engine  room 
and  on  conveyor  floor. 

K.  Install  automatic  sprinklers  of  the  dry -pipe  type  covering  every  portion 
of  the  building.  The  next  best  protection  would  be  a  graduated  pipe  system 
with  open  sprinkler  heads  and  the  controlling  valve  accessibly  located  at  the 
ground  and  standpipes  and  fire  hose.  These  systems  need  ample  water  supply 
and  pressure. 

L.  Install  automatic  journal  alarms. 

IM.*  If  the  value  of  the  structure,  after  all  phases  from  an  economic  viewpoint 
have  been  considered  does  not  warrant  the  best  protection,  then  install  plenty 
of  water  barrels  and  fire  pails  or  bucket  tanks  and  one  or  two  approved  chemi- 
cal fire  extinguishers,  which  should  be  protected  from  freezing. 

N.  Whether  interior  protection  is  provided  or  not,  standard  two-way  fire 
hydrants,  with  standard  hose  houses  and  equipment,  should  be  installed  near 
the  station. 

(X  If  you  have  night  watchman's  service,  install  a  key  on  the  upper  floor  of 
station,  and  require  watchman  to  register  therefrom  on  his  regular  rounds. 

P.  Do  not  allov\'  dust  to  accumulate  in  quantities  in  out  of  way  places.  The 
entire  structure  should  be  thoroughly  cleaned  once  a  month. 

Q.  Prohibit  smoking  in  coaling  stations  at  all  times. 

R.  Do  not  fail  to  require  proper  inspection  of  all  fire  equipment  to  see  that  it  is 
In  working  condition  and  order,  especially  in  winter,  when  freeze-ups  are  likely 
to  occur. 

S.  Bear  in  mind  that  buildings  constructed  of  combustible  material  need 
constant  attention  with  regard  to  repairs,  condition  as  to  cleanliness,  fire  pre- 
vention, and  fire  protection. 


RECOMMENDATIONS  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  SHAVINGS  AND  SAW- 
DUST DISPOSAL  IN  WOODWORKING   MILLS. 

Tiie  ajiproved  method  of  disposing  of  shavings  and  sawdust  in  woodworking 
mills  consists  of  a  blower  whicli  draws  the  refuse  from  the  various  woodwork- 
ing machines  up  through  suction  pipes  and  discharges  it  iuto  a  storage  vault, 
baling  house,  freiglit  cars,  or  directly  into  a  shavings-consuming  device. 

Bl.0WKR«. 

P.Iowers  shdulil  have  outside  bearings  preferably  lubricated  wilh  a  Iiard  luhrl- 
caiit,  .so  as  to  avoid  oil  drip  and  possible  oily  sawdust. 

Blowers  should  liave  composition-metal  blades  to  prevent  liahilily  ol'  sitarks 
from  contact  of  blades  with  Iron  casing  or  nails. 

I'.lowers  should  be  located  in  an  acce.ssH)le  position  wliere  they  can  be  easily 
cleaned  and  Insper-ted. 

Blowers  shoidd  be  eleftrically  grounded  when  operated  by  a  belt  drivi",  so  as 
not  to  boconie  cliar;;C(l  with  sti'.tic  electricity. 

Ix.cTs  on  Piri;s. 

.Joints  must  lie  tight  to  prevent  «lust  esca[ting  or  Inlerfeiing  with  th<^  action 
of  blower,  particularly  In  case  of  suction  ducts. 

Connections  between  pipes  and  change  in  direction  of  piiies  should  be  made 
with  long  bends. 


30  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR  EAILEOAD  PROPERTIES. 

Suction  ducts  should  be  provided  at  all  machines  producing  inflammable 
refuse. 

Floor  sweep-up  ducts  should  be  located  in  convenient  places  about  mill  room. 
Tliese  ducts  must  have  bar  guards,  so  that  large  material  can  not  get  into  con- 
veyor system  and  damage  blower. 

Interior  of  all  ducts  must  be  smooth  and  care  must  be  exei'cised  in  making 
up  joints  that  the  inside  lap  of  joint  is  not  bent  out  of  shape.  Inside  lap  sliouhl 
be  in  the  direction  which  refuse  is  conveyed. 

Ducts  must  be  made  of  noncombustible  materials. 

Cyclone  Collectors  oe  Sepaeators. 

Noncombustible  construction  only  should  be  used. 

Must  not  be  located  inside  of  buildings.  The  preferable  location  is-  a  point 
outside  above  where  refuse  is  to  be  discharged.  Open-top  cyclones  must  be 
provided  with  a  metal  canopy  or  a  screen. 

DiscHAEGE  Duct  from  Cyclone. 

Should  run  in  as  near  a  straight  line  as  possible  from  cyclone  to  refuse- 
disposal  points. 

Ducts  from  cyclone  feeding  boiler  fire  boxes  should  be  open  at  boiler  end  and 
discharge  the  refuse  into  an  open  metal  receptacle  or  hopper  attached  to  front 
of  fire  box.  This  arrangement  vi'ill  allow  shavings  to  fall  on  floor  when  furnace 
feeder  is  choked  or  will  give  vent  for  a  back  fire. 

Ducts  to  boiler  fire  box  and  to  vault  should  be  provided  with  independent 
dampers,  preferably  arranged  so  that  one  will  be  open  while  other  is  closed. 

Shavings  Vault. 

ConsfrucUov. — Brick  or  concrete  walls,  floor,  and  roof. 

Location. — Outside  of  buildings. 

Vaults  built  in  connection  with  boiler  rooms  to  be  provided  with  only  one 
small  door  opening,  the  sill  of  opening  to  be  at  least  6  inches  above  boiler- 
room  floor.  Opening  must  be  8  feet  or  more  away  from  boiler  firing  door 
and  preferably  at  right  angles  to  the  plane  of  the  fire  door.  A  standard  auto- 
matic fire  door  must  cover  door  opening. 

Boiler  setting  must  not  in  any  case  be  used  as  one  wall  of  vault.  Elevated 
or  second-story  vaults  for  filling  cars  or  baling  machines  must  be  constructed  of 
incombustible  material. 

Refuse  Burners. 

Refuse  burners  should  be  detached  at  least  50  feet  and  of  large  size  to  effect 
complete  combustion.  Construction  to  be  of  metal,  lined  mth  fire  brick  or 
other  insulating  material  to  prevent  early  destruction  of  the  casing  from  con- 
tinued beat.  The  top  of  burner  should  be  provided  with  a  small  mesh  of 
heavy  wire  in  the  shape  of  a  dome  and  covering  the  entire  top  of  burner,  the 
purpose  being  to  arrest  sparks. 

Delivery  Into  Cars. 

Where  systems  deliver  shavings  into  cars  directly  from  cyclone,  the  cars 
shall  be  moved  to  a  safe  distance  from  any  building  as  soon  as  filled  and  at 
the  close  of  the  day's  work.  Only  box  cars  having  doors  shall  be  used  for 
this  service,  and  whenever  the  blower  systems  are  not  in  use  the  conveyor 


FIRE   PEOTECTIOISr   FOR  RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  31 

f1i<r'hnrffe  pipes  shall  be  removed  from  the  cars  aud  the  car  doors  closed. 
When  system  is  discharging  into  car,  a  false  door,  with  hole  in  it  throiigli 
which  discharge  pipe  passes,  should  be  inserted  in  door  opening  of  car. 

Baling. 

Where  shavings  are  baled  by  power,  due  precaution  must  be  taken  in  the 
safe  installation  of  the  power,  whetlier  steam  or  electric  motor.  Electric 
lighting  only,  safely  installed,  should  be  used  in  baling  room. 

f  FiEE  Protection. 

Steam  jet  for  vault  to  consist  of  one  automatic  sprinkler  head  for  each 
l.fMKj  cubic  feet  of  vault.  Steam-supply  pipe  to  be  connected  directly  to  boilers 
and  have  controlling  valve  locked  open,  or  a  manual  steam  jet  operated  by  an 
outsirle  controlling  quick  acting  lever  valve  may  be  used,  in  which  case  a  sign 
should  be  posted  designating  the  use  of  valve  in  case  of  fire.  Standard  auto- 
matic sprinklers  under  ample  water  pressure  might  be  used. 

For  boiler  room — l|-inch  hose  connectiou  and  25  feet  of  IJ-inch  hose. 

Fire  Prevention. 

Keep  shavings  vault  door  closed  while  boiler  fire  box  is  open. 

Kun  blower  five  minutes  after  mill  is  shut  down  so  as  to  clean  system. 

Trimmings  and  refuse  in  mill  not  removed  by  blower  system,  must  be  re- 
moved by  hand  and  taken  to  refuse  burner,  or  otherwise  suitably  disposed  of. 

Dust,  not  taken  up  by  blower  system,  should  be  cleaned  out  of  all  portions 
of  Imilding,  including  roof  timbers,  at  least  weekly.  This  cleaning  may  be  ac- 
coiii)>lishe(l  l)y  moans  of  comi)ressed  air  or  vacuum  system. 

npen  flame  lights  should  be  absolutely  prohibited  in  shavings  storage 
rooms. 


RECOMMENDATIONS    FOR    STANDARD    OIL    HOUSE. 

At  terminals  and  division  points  it  is  necessary  to  carry  in  stock  a  large 
((Uiiiitity  of  illuminating  and  lubricjxting  oils,  and  It  is  important  that  those 
should  be  so  stored  and  handled  that  they  may  not  l)e  a  fire  risk  in  themselves 
^}V  be  liable  to  ber^ome  ignited  from  fires  which  originate  from  without. 

The  storage  and  handling  of  oils  is  recognized  as  a  hazard  of  considerable 
magnitude.  Many  oils  that  do  not  give  off  Inflammable  vapors  at  ordinary 
tenipf-rature  do  so  in  large  volume  when  but  slightly  warm,  practically  all  are 
highly  combustible  under  ci-rtain  conditions  and  once  ignitt-d  burn  with  great 
Iiersistency,  resisting  water  to  a  greater  extent  than  most  substances. 

Handling  ok  Oit-. 

Whore  large  quantllies  of  oils  are  used  they  should  be  stored  outside  in 
imderground  tank8  with  pumps  inside  building;  otherwise,  oil-storage  room  lo 
be  in  l»asement  constructed  tlwongliout  <if  brick  rir  concrete  and  oil  puiniKii  1<> 
rixmi  above. 

Volatile  oils,  or  those  which  give  ^ift'  ignitablc  or  exfdosive  vajjors  at  ordiiiiuy 
tfmi)erature,  sliould  be  isolated.  It  is  best  to  bury  tanks  contaiidng  ga.solino, 
benzine,  or  nai)litha  In  the  grounr]  having  l<»p  covered  to  a  depth  of  at  li'asi  two 
and  one-half  f(!et,  using  jninips  to  draw  olT  such  oils. 

OlNSTRlTCTrON — T«)  HK   FtHK   TlESIHTlNO. 

With  basement  or  separate  underground  vault  (preferably  ouUiide  .stairway  to 
ba.soment). 

irci/8. — Brick  or  concrete  throughout  with  no  expo.sed  skeel. 


32         FIRE  PROTECTION  FOB  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

Roof. — Concrete,  Avithout  exposed  steel,  and  properly  ventilated. 

Floor. — Concrete,  graded  and  drained  to  one  point. 

Platform. — Concrete,  graded  and  drained  to  outer  edge. 

Doors. — Approved  standard  automatic.  Standard  automatic  trapdoors  over 
all  openings  to  basement.  If  trapdoors  are  not  provided,  stairs  to  basement  to 
be  inclosed  in  concrete,  brick,  or  terra  cotta  tile  and  openings  covered  with 
ai^proved  standard  automatic  swinging  doors. 

Wiudoivs. — Wired  glass  in  metal  sasli  and  frames. 

Vent  i)ipe.s. — To  extend  from  tire  floor  through  roof,  and  to  be  turned  down 
at  outer  end  and  screened. 

Vent  pipes  from  tanks. — To  be  carried  up  above  the  roof,  turned  down  at 
outer  end  and  screened. 

Drain  pipe. — To  be  extended  outside  of  building  to  a  point  well  removed  from 
all  buildings  or  to  a  separate  safelj^  arranged  and  ventilated  receptacle. 

Okder  and  Care. 

Racks,  stands,  and  shelves  for  ban-els  or  cans  to  be  constructed  of  concrete, 
metal,   or  other  incombustible  material. 

Waste  can. — At  least  one  approved  standard  metal  self-closing  oily  waste  can 
must  be  provided. 

"  No  smoking." — Signs  must  be  posted  in  oil  room  and  on  the  outside  of 
building  at  doorway. 

Sign  reading  "  Danger — Keep  lights  and  fire  away  "  should  be  painted  on  door. 

Heating. 

Steam  only  to  be  used ;  pipes  to  be  overhead. 

Lighting. 

Electricity,  incandescent  system ;  wires  to  be  in  metal  conduit  with  keyless 
lamp  sockets,  and,  lamps  covered  with  vapor-proof  globes ;  all  controlling  switches 
and  fuses  to  be  outside. 

Miscellaneous. 

Glass  gauges,  the  breakage  of  which  would  allow  the  escape  of  oil,  should 
be  avoided.  If  their  use  is  necessary,  they  should  have  substantial  protection 
or  be  arranged  so  that  oil  will  not  escape  if  broken.  Preferably  a  slotted  pipe 
to  be  used  for  guard.    Valves  on  sight  glasses  to  be  normally  closed. 

Peotection. 

STEAM    jets    to    ACT    AUTOMATICALLY. 

Approved  automatic  sprinklers  to  release  steam  from  pipes;  valve  on  pipe 
line  to  be  sealed  open  at  all  times.  Pipe  sizes  to  be  in  accordance  with  rules 
governing  the  installation  of  automatic  sprinkler  equipment,  viz : 

f-inch  pipe — 1  sprinkler.  2-inch  pipe — 10  sprinklers. 

1-inch  pipe — 2  sprinklers.  2J-inch  pipe — 20  sprinklers, 

li-inch  pipe — 3  sprinklers.  3-iuch  pipe — 36  sprinklers. 

Is-inch  pipe — 5  sprinklers. 
\f  oil  house  is  over  200  feet  from  boilers,  supply  pipes  to  be  one  size  larger 
than  regular  schedule  size. 

Pipe  from  inside  of  building  to  boilers  to  be  lagged  to  prevent  condensation, 
and  should  be  an  independent  line  from  boilers. 

One  automatic  sprinkler  jet  to  be  provided,  for  each  1,000  cubic  feet. 
Jets  to  be  spaced  not  over  10  feet  apart. 
High-pressure  steam  to  be  maintained  at  all  times. 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   R-\ILROAD  PROPERTIES.  33 

Distributing  pipes  to  be  frraded,  sloping  from  main  feeder,  so  that  water 
from  condensation  will  remain  in  pipes  against  sprinklers.  Install  steam  trap 
under  main  riser  to  carry  off  condensation. 

STEAM    JETS    TO   BE    OPERATED    MANUAIXY. 

If  automatic  steam  jets  are  not  provided  for,  install  steam  jet,  high-pressure 
connection,  to  be  operated  by  hand ;  minimum  size  pipe  to  be  1  inch  in 
diameter,  supplying  a  room  of  1,000  cubic  feet  or  less.  Rooms  of  a  larger  size 
require  a  larger  size  pipe,  leading  up  to  a  size  of  at  least  2  inches  in  diameter 
for  a  room  of  5,000  cubic  feet. 

Controlling  valve  to  be  located  on  outside  of  building,  with  prominent  siga 
located  over  same,  designating  its  use. 

SAND    rAIT.S. 

Tliree  or  more  pails  of  clean,  dry  sand  (with  hand  scoop  for  throwing)  to  be 
provided  and  located  on  shelf  or  hooks  near  doorway,  or  specially  made  sand 
box  holding  an  equal  amount  of  sand,  with  hand  scoop  for  throwing. 

CHEMICAL  EXTINGUISHERS. 

Approved  hand  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  sufficient  in  number  and  so 
located  as  to  be  quickly  accessible,  are  recommended.  For  oil  fires  the  carbon 
tetra  chloride  type  of  extinguisher  is  considered  the  most  effective.  Also  ap- 
proved "  Foam  "  type, 

FIRE  RISK— FREIGHT  TRANSFER  POINTS. 

On  most  railroads  there  is  a  marked  liability  for  serious  loss  and  a  marked 
fire  risk  at  freight  transfer  stations  where  large  aucumulations  of  cars  and  their 
lading  are  found  and  where  in  many  instances  from  500  to  1,000  loaded  cars 
may  be  congested,  of  a  highly  combustible  nature,  with  their  contents.  Then, 
again,  the  transfer  structures  are  usually  constructed  of  wood,  with  wooden 
platforms  several  hundred  feet  long.  Such  properties  are  as  a  rule  either 
remote  from  or  inaccessible  for  city  fire-fighting  apparatus  to  reach  them.  They 
arc,  as  a  rule,  also  not  well  provided  with  water  supplies  in  the  shape  of  water 
mains  under  adequate  pressure,  with  fire  hydrants  or  accessible  supplies  of  fire 
hose.  The  best  protection  found  is  usually  that  to  be  used  only  as  a  "first 
Slid,"  or  In  the  incipient  stage  of  a  fire,  in  the  shape  of  water  barrels  and  water 
palls  or  hand  chemical  extinguishers,  with  occasionally  a  portable  chemical 
engine. 

The  hazard  of  tiiese  transfers  is  increa.sed  by  accumulations  of  rubbish  from 
time  to  time,  as  well  as  the  pronounced  hazard  of  smoking  on  the  part  of  the 
em[)loyoe.s.  In  the  ab.sence  of  efficient  facilities  for  either  dealing  with  a  fire  in 
Its  incipient  stage  or  If  It  has  become  more  or  less  pronounced,  the  effective- 
ness with  which  the  fire-prevention  features  are  watche<l  is  most  valuable. 
A  careful  patrolling  .system  by  competent  and  physically  fit  day  and  night 
watchmen  is  quite  necessary,  particularly  to  see  that  the  hazards  produced 
through  carelessness  and  Indifference  are  avei'led.  Ample  watilniien's  service 
should  be  provided  to  cover  all  points  at  frequent  Intervals. 

Engineers  in  con.slderlng  the  construction  or  lay-out  of  large  freight  transfer 
points  or  terminals  should  carefully  consider,  when  water  supplies  arc  available, 
the  extension  of  yard  mains  and  the  location  of  fire  hydrants,  with  supplies  of 
fire  ho.se  to  amply  protect  transfer  stations  and  car.-j  in  the  yard,  and  to  allow 
sufficient  space  for  the  unhampered  u.se  of  hydrants  and  hose  for  the  protection 
of  the  entire  property. 
84505"— 10 3 


34  FlUE  PKOTECTION   FOE   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

CLOTHES  LOCKERS  FOR  EMPLOYEES. 

The  wooden  closets  or  lockers  used  by  railroad  employees  for  their  street 
clothing  during  working  hours  and  their  overalls  and  other  belongings  at  niyht 
form  concealed  spaces  for  the  origin  of  many  tires. 

The  average  workman,  especially  if  foreign  born,  does  not  have  any  appre- 
ciable knowledge  of  spontaneous  ignition  and  of  the  conditions  leading  up  to  it 
or  of  the  necessitj'  for  ventilation  in  clothes  lockers. 

Too  frequently  upon  inspection  of  employees'  lockers  we  find  their  interior 
uncleanly,  containing  accumulations  of  old  greasy  clothing  (usually  piled 
at  the  bottom  of  locker),  oily  and  clean  waste,  oil  torches,  cans  of  oil,  "strike- 
anywhere"  matches  in  paper  boxes  or  Ijing  about  the  shelf  or  floor  of  locker, - 
employees'  pipes,  partly  consumed  cigars  or  cigarettes,  etc.  Under__sucli  con- 
ditions the  average  wooden  clothes  locker  "adds  a  pronounced  hazard  to  a  rail- 
rt  ;ul  property  as  the  concealment  afforded  and  the  nature  of  their  contents  are 
especially  favorable  to  the  development  of  combustion,  spontaneous  or  otherwise. 

The  following  suggestions  and  recommendations  are  offered  with  a  view  of 
eliminating  or  at  least  reducing,  as  far  as  possible,  this  serious  fire  hazard : 

Where  practicable,  a  detachetl  building  with  sanitary  locker  and  wash  rooms, 
where  employees'  clothing  can  be  protected  under  ideal  conditions  as  to  situa- 
tion and  ventilation,  should  be  provided.  At  large  terminal  properties,,  par- 
ticularly warehouse  piers  and  grain  elevators,  the  detached,  nonexposing  locker 
building  is  most  desii"able. 

Substantial  constructed  well  ventilated  metal'  lockers  for  employees'  clothing 
should,  wherever  iwssible,  be  pi'ovided  in  preference  to  the  wooden  lockers. 
The  metal  locker  is  more  sanitary. 

Wooden  clothes  lockers  should  not  be  permitted  in  paint  or  smith  shops, 
foundries,  and  oil  or  paint  houses. 

Wooden  lockers  if  used  should  not  rest  on  floors  and  should  be  so  located  that 
rubbish  can  not  accumulate  behind  them.  The  tops  of  such  lockers  should 
slope  at  an  angle  of  45  degrees  or  more  so  as  to  completely  prevent  using  the 
top  as  a  shelf  upon  which  to  pile  material  of  any  sort.  The  doors  should  con- 
tain large  panels  of  wire  netting,  preferably  over  four-fifths  of  their  area,  per- 
mitting free  ventilation  and  a  fair  degree  of  inspection  wlien  locker  can  not  be 
opened. 

All  loel5;ers  should  be  inspected  and  cleaned  at  least  once  each  month,  and 
employees  should  be  instructed  to  keep  all  clothing  hung  up. 

Oil  torches,  oils,  greasy  waste,  and  even  clean  waste  should  not  be  stored  in 
clotTies  lockers  or  left  in  pockets  of  overalls.  Instruction  should  be  issued  to 
employees  not  to  leave  matches  in  clothing  while  in  lockers;  the  use  of  safety 
matches  should  be  encouraged. 


FIRE  RISK  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  STORAGE  OR  CONCENTRATION 
OF  CARS   ON   SIDINGS,  IN   YARDS,   OR  AT  TERMINALS. 

Numerous  fire  losses  have  been  experienced  by  railroad  companies  in  con- 
nection with  rolling  equipment,  in  many  instances  in  tbe  past  where  the  cars 
have  been  empty  and  stored  on  sidings  or  in  terminals. 

Care  should  be  taken  to  remove  hay,  straw,  and  other  rubbish  from  all  cars 
before  they  are  stored,  and  to  see  that  the  doors  of  all  bos  cars  are  closed,  as 
well  as  the  traps  to  ice  boxes  on  refrigerator  cars. 

Rubbish  should  not  be  permitted  to  accumulate  about  the  cars,  and  grass, 
weeds,  and  small  growth  should  be  cleaned  away  from  tracks. 


FIRE   PROTECTION   FOE   RAILROAD  PEOPEETTES.  35 

Cars  should  not  be  stored  near  hazardous  risks  or  where  they  wouki  exiiose 
or  !>e  exposed  to  any  valuable  adjacent  property. 

Where  there  is  a  large  number  of  wooden  cars  subject  to  a  conflagration  risk, 
they  should  be  spotted,  wherever  practicable,  so  they  will  be  accessible  in  case 
of  tire,  for  the  purpose  of  either  extinguishing  the  lire  or  moving  the  cars  out 
of  danger.  A  plan  might  be  used  such  as  storuig  cars  in  drafts  of  not  more 
than  six  or  eight  cars,  and  separating  the  drafts  by  60  or  80  feet ;  also  in  large 
yards  every  other  track  could  be  used  for  the  storage  of  steel  cars. 

Ample  facilities  should  be  arranged  for  prompt  removal  in  case  of  fire. 

Watchman's  service  should  be  provided  and  watchman  furnished  in  his 
watch  box  with  an  equipment  of  2|-gallon  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  properly 
charged,  and  also  instructed  as'to  notifying  the  nearest  yard  oflace  for  procuring 
assistance  of  locomotives  for  removing  the  cars  should  a  tire  occur.  The  service 
of  a  watchman  is  possibly  more  requisite  during  the  winter  season  when  tramps 
are  apt  to  live  in  and  build  fires  on  the  floors  of  stored  cars ;  there  are  the  op- 
portunities for  sparks  from  passing  locomotives  setting  fires,  however,  at  all 
seasons.  Watchman  should  also  be  instructed,  if  storage  is  near  a  municipality, 
as  to  the  method  of  obtaining  assistance  from  the  city  fire  department  if  it  is 
accessible  for  service. 

If  fire  hydrants  or  plugs  are  available,  supplies  of  fire  hose,  nozzles,  and 
A-rcnches  should  be  provided  for  use  thereon  by  employees. 

Yard  engines  should  be  equipped  with  fire-fighting  apparatus. 

AN'here  large  numbers  of  cars  are  stored  in  yards  and  wliere  tliere  are  available 
water  supplies  distributed  through  adequate  sized  water  mains,  an  efficient  sys- 
tem of  fire  protection  is  one  which  makes  use  of  standpipes  and  a  specially 
designed  nozzle,  termed  a  "  monitor  "  or  "  turret "  nozzle.  This  device  is  so 
made  that  it  can  be  turned  in  any  direction  and  has  been  mechanically  per- 
fected, so  that  it  is  a  durable  piece  of  apparatus.  Standpipes  are  installed  at 
regular  distances  tlu'ough  car  yards,  attached  to  the  water  mains,  and  ax-e 
erected  In  the  form  of  a  tower  about  20  feet  high,  with  a  platform  at  the  top 
for  the  nozzle,  the  platform  being  large  enough  for  a  man  to  eivsily  work  on.  A 
ladder  from  the  ground  makes  access  to  the  iilatform  easy.  In  this  way  the 
operator  can  view  the  yard  and  direct  the  nozzle  to  the  exact  point  needed. 

Tills,  in  many  instance.s,  affords  a  l^etter  degree  of  protection  and  gives  better 
opi)ortunity  than  ho.se  streams  both  for  fighling  the  fire  and  also  for  removal 
of  car.s,  inasmuch  us  great  difliculty  is  experienced  in  dragging  hose  between 
and  over  and  under  cars  to  get  at  the  fire,  and  while  hose  is  laid  under  cars 
n-moval  of  cars  can  not  be  made  without  cutting  hose  or  interfering  with  fire 
fi;.'liliiig  unles.s  hose  is  run  under  rails  between  ties  in  runways.  With  a  well- 
devised  piping  arrangement  in  the  yards  and  these  tower  and  nozzle  arrange- 
nionts,  a  heavy  stream  frojn  Ihe  nozzle  can  be  directed  without  the  delay  of 
bringing  ho.se  from  distant  parts.  Naturally,  this  form  of  Installation  is  de- 
pendent on  an  efTi<ient  supi»ly  and  pressure  of  water,  either  from  gravity  sup- 
plies under  suflicient  head  or  pumps.  When  the  yards  are  avallal)le  for  con- 
nection with  high-pressure  city  mains,  such  connections  should  be  made  and  also 
Htlachmeuts  for  city  fire  department  steamers.  One  man  can  easily  operate 
the  monitor  nozzle,  wliereas  it  requires  several  men  to  drag  a  line  of  hum  and 
oper;ite  it. 

Tliese  systems  have  been  Installed  i)y  some  railroiids  with  good  effect,  and  it 
Js  lielieved  with  proper  maintenance  and  control  of  water  supjilles  when  de- 
mand is  made  upon  them  for  figliting  fires  that  these  installations  are  about  a.s 
practical  a  device  as  can  be  installed  and  give  a  well  warranted  protection  when 
tiie  iuige  values  at  risk  are  considered. 


36  FIRE   rKOTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

PROTECTION  OF  CAMP  CARS  AGAINST  LOSS  BY  FIRE. 

Nuiueroiis  tires  have  been  experienced  to  camp-car  equipment  alcfng  railways 
and  naturally  with  the  character  of  labor  and  general  class  of  occupancy,  care- 
lessness is  apt  to  prevail  and  at  least  indifference  as  to  fire  prevention.  Rail- 
roads have  lost  considerable  equipment  due  to  fires  in  this  class,  and  other 
property  in  the  neighborhood  has  also  been  destroyed  by  being  closely  ex- 
posed. We,  therefore,  make  the  following  recommendations  and  suggestions 
for  the  better  safeguarding  of  camp-car  equipment  against  loss  by  fire: 

Care. 

Car*  should  not  be  placed  near  hazardous  risks. 

Ashes  from  stoves  should  be  placed  safe  distance  av.'ay  from  rolling  «tock, 
buildings,  and  material. 

Only  safety  matches  should  be  stored  or  used,  and  the  commissary  people 
occupying  cars  should  be  directed  to  observe  this. 

Standard  rack  should  be  provided  for  the  proper  care  of  fusees  and  torpe- 
does which  have  to  be  kept  on  hand. 

Metal  box  should  be  provided  for  oil  cans  and  waste. 

Lighting. 

Metal-bracketed  wall  lamps  should  be  used,  clearing  woodwork  and  walls  at 
least  6  inches  on  all  sides,  and  lamps  should  be  made  stationary.  Lamp  bowls 
should  be  of  metal  and  preferably  be  in  one  piece  (without  seams)  to  prevent 
leakage.    Hand  oil  lamps  and  glass  lamps  should  be  prohibited. 

The  wall  lamps  should  be  so  placed  that  the  tops  of  chimneys  will  not  be  any 
closer  than  3  feet  from  ceiling.    Otherwise  smoke  bells  should  be  provided. 

Heating. 

Stoves  should  be  securely  bolted  to  floors. 

Metal  protection  of  suflicient  thickness  should  be  provided  for  woodwork 
under  stoves,  extending  at  least  IS  inches  on  all  sides. 

Stoves  should  clear  wall  woodwork  at  least  3  feet  or  walls  protected  with 
asbestos  and  tin  with  1-inch  air  space  between. 

Stovepipes  should  be  riveted  at  joints  and  clear  woodwork  at  least  6  inches 
where  passing  through  roof. 

Location. 

Camp  cars  should  be  so  located  as  to  avoid  jeopardizing  other  rolling  equip- 
ment or  buildings. 


FIRE  PREVENTION  AND  PROTECTION  IN  GRAIN  ELEVATORS. 

In  considering  fire  prevention  and  fire  protection  in  elevators,  all  classes  of 
elevators,  from  the  small  frame  country  elevator  to  the  latest  concrete  terminal 
elevator,  are  taken  into  consideration.  Each  class  of  elevator  construction  has 
its  own  individual  hazard,  and  while  the  general  hazard  is  the  same  in  all  ele- 
vators,   these    individual    hazards    stand    out    more    prominently    in    each. 

FiEE  Hazards. 

In  taking  up  the  general  cause  of  fires  in  elevators  it  is  hard  to  distinguish 
the  greater  of  two  sources  of  fires,  general  iiousckccping  or  care  of  machinery. 


FIRE  PROTECTIOX  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  37 


111  the  first  of  the  two  wc  have  tlie  ever-pi'^seut  dust  caused  in  the  general  run 
pf  business,  and  which  must  be  taken  care  of  for  various  reasons.  The  reasons 
that  dust  must  be  talien  care  of  from  a  fire  standpoint  are  many,  one  of  which 
is  the  possibility  of  explosions.  Tliese  explosions  are  not  caused,  as  thought  "by 
bome,  by  fire  communicating  with  a  pile  of  dust,  as  a  pile  of  dust  ignited  in  this 
way  will  simply  smoulder  and  burn  over  the  top  of  the  pile;  but  the  dust  that 
accumulates  on  gii'ders,  spouts,  ledges,  and  other  projections  is  dangerous  on 
account  of  being  distiubed,  in  falling  mixes  with  the  air,  and  if  this  reaches 
an  open  light  or  fire,  then  an  explosion  takes  place  which  usually  wrecks  the 
building  and  sots  fire  to  it.  Dust  should  not  be  allowed  to  accumulate  in  any 
part  of  the  building,  but  should  be  kept  down  to  a  minimum.  All  machinery, 
the  journals,  pulleys,  drip  pans,  hoppers  under  elevator  heads,  the  sinks  at  boots 
of  elevators,  the  conveyors,  should  be  kept  as  free  from  dust  as  possible.  Dust 
fehould  not  bo  used  to  catch  drippings  of  oil  from  journals  or  oil  barrels. 

SWEEI'KKS. 

In  large  elevators  men  should  be  employed  constantly  sweeping  to  prevent 
tlust  from  accumulating. 

EXHATJST-FAN    SYSTEM. 

An  exhaust-fan  system  for  renloving  the  dust  is  one  of  the  later  improve- 
ments for  keeping  the  house  clean.  When  a  fan  system  is  installed  it  should 
be  connected  above  the  pulley  at  the  bottom  of  the  elevator  leg;  at  the  top 
of  the  leg  on  the  side  where  the  grain  is  discharged,  at  the  top  of  garners  and 
scales  and  sufilcient  floor  sweeps  to  take  care  of  any  dust  that  might  escape  the 
above.  When  a  fan  system  is  put  in,  it  is  necessary  to  have  the  joints  of  ele- 
vator legs,  top  and  bottoirt  and  the  scales  and  garnerg  kept  as  tight  as  possible 
to  get  the  best  results.  The  dust  from  this  system  to  be  taken  care'  of  the  same 
as  suggested  for  cleaning  machines. 

-CHAFF   AND    SII.K    FKOM    CORN. 

The  chaff  from  corn  is  a  continual  source  of  annoyance  to  elevator  operators 
IIS  it  is  carried  by  the  wind  all  over  the  building. 

In  the  small  or  country  elevators,  where  corn  is  shelled,  there  is  considerable 
lillor  caused  by  cobs,  shucks,  and  silk  or  hair,  which  causes  a  distinct  hazard 
un  account  of  tlie  disposition  and  danger  of  fire  from  sparks  from  passing  loco- 
niolivcs  or  sparks  from  smokestack  outside  of  the  building  and  on  the  roof. 

STORING   OF.VM'SKI)   MATKKIAL. 

The  storing  of  unusod  spouting,  lielting,  and  old  niatorial  alxmt  the  building 
makes  a  ready  receptacle  for  accunuilating  dust  and  rubbish.  This  material 
should  be  taken  out  of  the  elevator  and  stored  in  some  outside  building,  wherever 
po.ssible,  in  order  to  reduce  the  po.sslbility  ol^  a  fire  on  account  of  these  accunuda- 
tions. 

WASTE  AM)  0\.n  CI.OTIIINC. 

'J"he  care  of  old  clotiiing  and  oily  waste  Is  a  hazard  \\hich  should  not  be  nvcr- 
looked,  as  tlie  clothing  is  always  full  of  fjust  and  Oiere  Is  more  or  less  oil  on  it 
frnni  rontact  with  machinery.  This  clothing  shoidd  not  be  kept  in  tlic  elevator 
when  it  is  jiossihlc  to  keeit  it  in  some  outside  building.  Wherever  it  Is  necessary, 
on  accoiMit  of  condilious,  to  keeii  clothing  inside  of  the  elevator  it  should  be  hung 
uii  in  metal  closetSt 


38  FIRE   PEOTECTION    FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

All  waste,  after  it  is  used,  should  be  kept  iu  standard  solf-closing  waste  cans. 
Tliose  cans  should  be  small  so  that  not  over  the  accumulation  of  one  day's  work 
would  be  kept  in  the  building.  These  cans  should  be  emptied  daily  and  the 
waste  burned. 

MACHINEEY. 

The  machinery  in  elevators  is  somewhat  different  from  machinery  In  other 
plants,  as  it  is  likely  to  be  thrown  out  of  line  by  the  raising  or  lowering  of  the 
house  caused  by  loading,  unloading,  or  transferring  grain  from  one  part  of  the 
house  to  the  other.  This  is  the  case  in  the  old-fashioned  elevator  with  the  line 
shaft  upward  of  100  feet  long  where  bins  are  constructed  of  cribbing  and  the 
cupola  or  texas  is  supported  directly  on  the  bins  instead  of  being  supported  in- 
dependently. This  action  of  the  house  is  likely  to  cause  hot  journals  on  account 
of  the  shafting  being  out  of  line  or  causing  a  friction  between  the  journal  and 
the  collar  on  the  sliaft. 

This  can  be  overcome  by  placing  a  loose  soft  metal  washer  between  the  jour- 
nal and  the  collar.  Long  shafts  have  been  known  to  creep  several  inches  either 
way  in  hot  or  cold  weather  on  account  of  expansion  or  contraction.  The  heads 
of  elevators  or  the  pulleys  or  belts  at  the  heads  of  elevators  oiten  become 
shifted,  causing  frictions.  This  can  be  overcome  by  regulating  the  bridge  trees, 
always  remembering  that  the  belt  will  run  to  the  high  side  of  the  pulley.  The 
strut  board  under  the  head  pulley  should  never  be  horizontal,  but  should  always 
be  made  on  an  incline  toward  the  down  leg  sufficiently  tapering  to  be  self- 
cleaning.  This  is  to  prevent  fi-ictions  between  the  bottom  of  head  pulley  and 
grain  or  dust  that  falls  from  the  buckets  onto  the  strut  board.  The  various 
methods  of  operating  the  head  pulleys  differ  in  a  number  of  ways.  The  most 
dangei-ous  method  being  what  is  known  as  the  friction  head,  which  consists  of  a 
pulley  made  of  compressed  paper  with  iron  flanges  placed  at  spaces  of  about  6 
to  8  inches  between  the  paper.  The  paper  extends  abQut  one-fourth  inch  above 
the  iron  flange  on  which  the  head  pulley  runs.  This  friction  pulley  is  keyed 
rigidly  to  the  main  shaft  and  revolves  all  the  time  the  machinery  is  running. 
To  operate  the  elevator  it  is  necessary  by  a  lever  and  rope  extending  to  the 
first  floor,  to  lower  the  head  pulley  onto  the  friction  pulley,  so  that  the  weight 
of  pulley  belt  and  grain  that  is  elevating  rests  on  the  friction  pulley.  The 
dangerous  part  of  this  method  consists  in  the  paper  on  the  pulley  becoming 
worn  down  to  the  iron  flanges,  causing  a  spark  or  an  electric  spark.  This 
electric  spark  can  be  overcome  at  least  temporarily  by  connecting  a  wire  from 
the  journal  of  this  pulley  to  the  journal  of  the  head  pulley,  but  the  proper 
course  to  pursue  is  to  have  the  iron  flanges  turned  down  at  least  one-fourth 
inch  below*  the  paper. 

The  elevators  operated  by  a  clutch  direct,  a  gear  wheel  operated  from  a  gear 
on  a  clutch  pulley  or  friction-clutch  rope  or  belt  drive  are  not  so  dangerous,  as 
these  are  all  outside  of  the  elevator  heads,  but  the  shifting  ropes  on  these 
should  extend  to  the  first  floor  for  quick  handling  to  throw  the  elevator  out 
of  gear  in  case  of  a  choke.  Care  should  be  taken  to  see  that  these  levers  are 
not  fastened  down  in  any  way  that  they  can  not  be  operated  from  the  first  floor. 

CHOKES. 

A  choke  in  an  elevator  leg  is  often  the  cause  of  fires  as  the  main  shaft  con- 
tinues to  run  but  the  head  pulley,  belt  or  friction  clutch  stops,  thereby  causing 
a  friction,  which  may  cause  a  fire  unless  it  is  relieved  by  the  shifting  ropes 
or  the  gearing  gives  way.  A  choke  may  be  caused  by  the  friction  clutch,  fric- 
tion pulley  or  belt  drive  slipping,  by  overloading,  by  permitting  tl>e  bucket 
belt  to  become  loose,  by  permitting  the  scale  or  garner  to  fill  up  the  grain 


FIEE   PROTECTION   FOE  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  39 

back  up  to  the  leg  or  to  have  an  ivou  bar  or  board  fall  out  of  the  car  into  the 
boot  of  the  elevator. 

At  the  bottom  of  the  elevator  we  have  a  hazard  that  calls  for  very  close 
inspection  of  the  elevator  boot.  This  boot  is  usually  constructed  of  iron  with 
slides  at  front  and  rear  to  remove  chokes.  Inside  of  this  boot  is  the  pulley* 
and  belt.  The  journals  are  on  the  outside  of  the  boot,  but  in  some  cases 
inclosed  in  an  outer  cover  or  pocket  to  prevent  the  grain  coming  out  around 
the  journal.  The  best  journal  used  at  this  point  is  what  is  known  as  the  car 
journal  box  as  the  pulley  acts  as  an  idler,  the  bearing  is  on  the  top,  as  on  a  rail- 
road car,  and  there  is  room  in  the  bottom  of  the  box  to  pack  with  hair  or  moss 
to  hold  the  supply  of  oil.  This  pulley  is  regulated  by  rods  extending  to  tlie 
first  floor,  so  that  when  the  belt  stretches  or  shifts,  it  can  be  regulated  to  pre- 
vent a  friction  between  the  casing  and  belt  or  pulley. 

OILING  BEARING  AT  BOOTS. 

These  journals  are  often  oiled  through  pipes  from  the -first  floor,  but  this  is 
bad  practice,  as  the  pipe  may  become  separated,  the  oil  may  not  feed  properly, 
or  the  journal  may  be  running  hot  from  some  cause  and  would  not  be  discovered 
until  probably  too  late,  as  the  oiler  is  not  compelled  to  go  down  into  the  sink 
to  do  the  oiling,  where  long  pipes  are  used. 

In  cold  climates  the  oil  is  likely  to  freeze  in  these  pipes,  and  cases  have  been 
noted  where  the  oiler,  instead  of  taking  the  pipe  out  and  having  it  cleaned, 
would  have  a  long  rod  or  wire  heated  i-ed  hot  and  force  it  through  the  frozen 
oil  in  the  pipe.  This  naturally  adds  an  additional  hazard  on  account  of  the 
method  of  oiling.  A  small  pipe,  say  not  over  1  foot  in  length,  would  be  per- 
missible, as  this  would  provide  a  reservoir  for  oil  that  would  hold  sufficient  oil 
to  keep  the  journal  in  good  condition  for  several  hours. 

CONVEYORS. 

The  belt  conveyors  should  all  be  abovtf  the  floors  and  all  bearings  exposed. 
The  screw  conveyors  sliould  have  loose  tops,  so  that  in  case  of  a  choke  the  top 
will  raise,  permitting  the  grain  to  come  out  on  the  floor, 

SHOVEL  SHAIT. 

The  shovel  shaft,  idlers  and  all  journsils  should  he  accessible  and  above  the 
floor.s. 

CLEANING    MAf'lIINEIiY. 

Where  cleaning  machines  are  used  special  care  should  bo  taken  as  these  run 
at  high  s-peed.  These  should  be  kept  out  of  main  building  wherever  possible 
and  where  there  is  a  fan  attached  this  should  be  connected  by  metal  piping  to 
the  outside,  preferably  to  a  separate  house  or  if  arrangements  are  made  for 
burning  the  dust  under  tlie  boiler  Ihrough  an  apfiroved  automatic  feed  .spout. 
This  dust  shfnild  never  be  l)lown  into  a  du.'^t  room  inside  tlie  l)uildiMg  or  out 
of  the  ventilator  on  the  roof. 

STATIC   ELECTRICITY, 

Static  electricity  has  Ijecn  known  to  cause  a  number  of  flres  In  elevators. 
'Pliis  is  cauwMl  by  lielts  slipping  eitlier  on  account  of  the  bell.s  being  overloaded 
or  too  loose  on  the  pulleys  or  by  rapidly  moving  belts  under  suitable  atmos- 
pheric conditions.  .Static  electricity  can  be  overcome  In  a  largi>  degree  by 
grounding  the  shafting  or  bearings.  This  sli<»uld  be  done  in  all  large  elevators 
where  the  machinery  is  driven  by  belts  and  shafts,  but  it  is  unnecessary  where 
elevators  are  driven  direct  by  motors. 


40  FIRE   PKOTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 


■WINDOW    SCKEENS. 

The  windows  of  elevators  slioiild  be  covered  with  screening  of  lieavy  wire  to 
prevent  sparks  from  the  outside  entering.  All  windows  should  be  kept  open 
^vhile  the  elevator  is  in  operation  to  iiermit  all  the  dust  possible  to  esdape. 

COOPERING  GRAIN  DOORS. 

"Where  grain  doors  are  coopered  outside  of  tlie  buildnig  they  should  be  kept 
at  least  50  feet  from  the  elevator. 


The  oiler  is  one  of  the  most  important  men  in  the  elevator  from  two  sides. 
The  first  is  in  the  watchfulness  and  care  of  machinery  to  keep  it  from  heating, 
and  the  other  is  to  keep  the  journals  and  drip  pans  clean.  The  latter  is  easily 
done  if  the  oiler  will  carry  a  piece  of  waste  with  him  and  wherever  oil  is 
allowed  to  run  over  wipe  it  up  so  there  will  be  no  oil  on  the  outside  of  the 
journal  to  catch  the  flying  dust  and  cause  it  to  accumulate,  if  the  oil  is  kept 
oft"  of  the  outside  of  journals  and  they  are  kept  dry,  the  matter  of  cleaning 
is  much  easier. 

ELECTRIC   MOTOR. 

Where  the  machinery  is  operated  by  electric  motors,  they  should  be  of  the 
inclosed  or  induction  type,  in  order  to  prevent  danger  from  the  sparking  of 
the  brushes,  the  starting  box  and  the  resistance  coils,  which  are  a  constant 
source  of  danger  on  account  of  dust  unless  inclosed  in  a  separate  iuclosure. 

LIGHTING. 

The  lighting  in  an  elevator  should  be  electric,  installed  according  to  the  re- 
quirements of  the  "  National  Electrical  Code."  Where  there  is  no  electric  cur- 
rent, electric  flash-lights  should  be  us6d.  Open  gas  jets,  kerosene-oil  lamps,  or 
gasoline  lighting  systems  should  never  be  permitted.  Switchmen,  while  handling 
cars  in  the  building,  should  be  compelled  to  use  electric  flash-lights  or  electric- 
extension  lights.  In  no  event  should  they  be  permitted  to  use  the  ordinary 
switchmen's  lantern.  Do  not  lower  artificial  lights  into  bins  to  determine  the 
amount  of  grain  they  contain,  a  weighted  tape  should  be  used  for  this  purpose. 

LOCOMOTIVES. 

Locomotives,  while  switching'  cars,  should  never,  under  any  conditions  be 
permitted  to  enter  building,  on  account  of  the  possibility  of  fire  from  a  spark 
from  the  stack  or  dropping  fire  from  the  ash  pan.  Railroad  cars  should  not  be 
left  in  the  elevator  or  on  tracks  adjoining  over  night  where  it  is  possible  to 
move  them.  Where  possible  effort  should  be  made  to  require  all  steam  vessels 
tied  up  alongside  elevator  or  passing  within  150  feet  of  same  to  put  spark 
arresters  on  their  stacks. 


There  are  only  two  parts  of  an  elevator  that  need  heat,  the  foreman's  office 
on  tlie  ground  floor  and  the  weigher's  office  on  the  scale  floor.  These  should 
be  heated  by  steam  and  all  woodwork  protected  from  the  steam  pipes.  Thes6 
pipes,  w-here  passing  through  the  house,  should  be  covered  with  approved  cov- 
ering to  prevent  dust  settMng  on  them.  Stoves  should  not  be  permitted  in  au 
elevator  under  any  consideration. 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  41 

■A 
OIL  KOOil,  LL'NCH  EOOM,  AND  CARPENTER   SHOP, 

It  is  reconiiuended  that  the  oil  room,  men's  lunch  rooms,  and  carpenter  shop 
be  outside  of  the  main  building  whenever  possible. 

SMOKING   AND    MATCHES. 

Rmokin?  should  not  be  permitted  in  any  part  of  the  elevator.  Men  should 
not  be  permitted  to  carry  matches  into  the  building. 

OUTSIDE   WALLS.  * 

Wliere  the  wooden-l)in  walls  are  covered  with  corrugated  iron  special 
attention  should  be  paid  to  the  condition  of  this  iron,  as  an  opening  would 
make  a  ready  receptacle  for  a  spark  to  lodge  in. 

LIGHTNING. 

Lightning,  according  to  statistics  from  various  insurance  companies,  has 
liccn  the  cause  of  quite  a  number  of  fires  in  elevators.  All  elevator  buildings 
sliould  be  thoroughly  equipped  with  lightning  rods. 

Safeguards  Recom:mende»  for  Duiev.s   and   Stlpiitr  PiLEACHERS. 

Tiie  hazards  incident  to  the  use  of  grain  dryers  can  not  be  eliminated  or  safe- 
guarded to  such  an  extent  that  their  introduction  inside  tlie  elevator  would  jiot 
cause  a  material  increase  in  the  fire  lia^^ard.  Their  introduction  inside  the  ele- 
vator should  be  prohibited. 

Notwithstanding  the  fact  tliat  tlie  grain  and  foreign  matter  mixed  therewith 
are  the  only  materials  of  a  combusli])le  nature  contained  in  a  structure  con- 
structed in  accordance  with  the  underwriters'  regulations,  it  is  believed  that  a 
fan-driven  fire  in*this  dust  and  grain  would  result  in  considerable  damage  to 
the  apparatus  and  possibly  to  tho  structure.  For  this  reason  the  following 
reromhjendations  for  safeguards  are  appended: 

First.  An  adequate  system  of  autoipatic  steam  jets  should  be  provided  for 
extingui.shing  fires  in  the  apparatus.  High-degree  automatic  sprinklers  can 
l)e  arranged  so  as  to  automatically  fill  the  apparatus  with  steam  In  cases  of  fire. 

Tlie  steam  pipes  for  sprinklers  and  all  other  parts  of  the  apparatus  should 
hi-  so  arranged  that  all  condensation  can  be  removed  during  cold  weather  and 
when  the  drier  is  not  in  use. 

Second.  If  the  fan  is  driven  by  :ni  indcpendtMif  eniriu(>  a  system  of  t^usilile 
links  should  be  so  arranged  tliat  the  fusing  f)r  any  link  woidd  close  a  shut-oiC 
valve  on  the  steam  coinicdion  suiijilying  the  engine.  Attachments  for  auto- 
matically stopiting  the  fan  when  tlie  jtower  is  from  other  sources  should  be 
pif»vided  if  jwacticalile. 

Third.  An  automatic  fire-alarm  .system  shoidd  be  iiistiillcd,  iilai'ing  alarms 
In  the  engine  room  and  at  other  i)oints  if  desirable. 

Fourth.  A  thorough  system  of  automatic  sprinklers  should  be  installed  when 
the  drier  is  u.sed  iu  connection  with  the  .sprinklered  elevator. 

Wlien  Installed  outside  the  elevator  and  in  accordance  with  the  under- 
writers' rules  and  requirements,  grain  driers,  even  of  approved  construction, 
are  considered  as  adding  to  the  fire  hazard  of  the  elevators  In  connection 
with  which  they  are  used,  according  to  the  construction  of  the  diler  building 
and  the  distance  which  they  are  removed  from  the  elevator. 

SULPnCU   TU.EACHERS. 

The  snli)hur-l)urning  furnace  should  be  .set  at  least  2.'  feet  distant  from  the 
elevator,  and  he  of  fireproof  construction.  When  necessary  to  get  the  furnace 
closer  than  2.j  feet,  the  fume  pipe  should  be  not  less  than  25  feet  In  length. 


42  FIIIE  PROTECTION   FOB   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

Tlie  same  regulations  should  also  apply  to  sulphur  bleachers  as  'to  grain 
driers  in  reference  to  comnuuiication,  but  the  inclosure  for  burning  sulphur 
should  be  so  arranged  ^fith  division  walls  that  in  case  of  a  choke  in  the  con- 
veyor after  passing  the  bleacher  the  grain  can  not  back  up  to  the  pan  in  which 
the  sulphur  is  burned. 

Fire  Protection. 

The  best  means  of  fire  protection  is  a  standard  installation  of  automatic 
sprinklers,  although  the  autouiatic  sjirinkhii-  ia  not  as  effective  in  an  elevator  as 
in  other  classes*f  buildings.  It  is  necessary  to  have  a  dry  system  on  account 
of  cold  weather.  When  a  sprinkler  head  is  released  on  account  of  fire,  the  air 
expelled  from  this  opening  blows  the  dust  about  in  such  a  manner  as  may 
cause  an  explosion.  The  standards  require  inside  standpipes  with  hose  on  the 
various  floors  sufficient  to  reach  all  parts  of  the  buildings.  There  is  a  question 
whether  the  hose  at  the  various  outlets  should  be  standard  2i-inch  fire  hose  or 
a  smaller  size,  either  14-inch  or  2inch  hose.  It  is  a  well  known  fact  that  one 
man  can  not  handle  a  2i-inch  hose  line  if  it  has  an  effective  presslire  on  it. 
Therefore  it  is  reasonable  to  say  that  a  l^-inch  hose  with  nozzles  having  *-inch 
openings  would  be  the  most  serviceable.  These  inside  standpipes  should  be 
supplied  from  a  pump  or  pumps  in  the  boiler  house  of  sufficient  capacity  to 
furnish  requisite  volume  and  pressure.  Where  water  can  be  obtained  from  city 
mains,  with  sufficient  pressure  to  reach  the  top  of  the  building,  a  by-pass 
around  the  pumps  should  be  provided  so  that  in  case  of  the  elevator  being  shut 
down  or  no  steam  on  the  boilers  this  water  could  be  used.  Where  pumps  are 
provided  steam  pres.sure  sufficient  to  operate  the  pump  should  be  maintained 
at  all  times.  These  standpipes  should  be  arranged  for  draining,  so  that  in 
winter  there  will  be  no  water  on  the  standpipes,  as  the  buildings  are  open  a^id 
the  water  in  the  pipes  would  be  subject  to  freezing.  StaTidpipes  should  be 
under  outside  control,  so  that  if  it  is  found  impossible  to  use  this  protection  on 
account  of  headway  gained  by  a  fire,  the  post  indicator  valve  controlling  can 
be  shut,  and  the  water  supply  reserved  for  hydrants  or  other  protection  that 
may  be  available.  Water  barrels  with  fire  pails  should  be  placed  on  all  floors 
of  the  elevator,  apportioned  about  one  to  each  leg  in  a  regular  elevator  or  one 
to  each  500  square  feet  in  other  buildings. 

Approved  2i-gallon  chemical  fire  extinguishers  are  advisable  as  additional 
protection,  but  these  would  have  to  be  kept  in  the  engine  room  or  office  in  the 
winter  unless  the  nonfreezing  type  is  used.  In  elevators  where  electric  motors 
are  used  carbon  tetrachloride  extinguishers  should  be  provided.  Either  of  these 
extinguishers  or  sand  in  buckets  should  be  provided  for  oil  rooms.  Axes  and 
pike  poles  should  be  provided  on  all  floors.  Signal  alarms  from  all  hose  out- 
lets to  the  engine  room  should  be  arranged  for  turning  in  fire  alarms  or  notify- 
ing the  engineer  to  start  the  fire  pump. 

Fire  brigades  should  be  organized  among  employees  and  regularly  drilled  twice 
a  month  in  order  that  employees  may  become  familiar  with  handling  fire  appa- 
ratus provided.  Daily  inspection  should  be  made  of  all  fire  equijiment  and  a 
weekly  report  form  forwarded  to  proper  official. 

A  sufficient  number  of  night,  Sunday,  and  holiday  watchmen  should  be  main- 
tained to  cover  all  portions  of  elevator  hourly,  with  necessary  approved  watch- 
man's clock-service  stations  properly  loca4;ed  for  registration.  Watchmen 
should  be  instructed  with  regard  to  location  of  fire  alarm  boxes,  interior 
standpipe  and  firehose  connections,  fire  pails,  chemical  extinguishers,  etc.  The 
first  tour  should  t)e  made  immediately  after  elevator  has  closed  down. 

Electric  journal  alarms  from  journals  to  an  indicator  in  engine  room  which 
operates  in  case  of  a  journal  getting  hot  are  recommended,  and  when  installed 
should  be  tested  daily. 


FIEE   PBOTECTIOJS"   FOE   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  43 

GUAKDING   AND   IDENTIFICATION. 

Wlieu  possible,  special  guards  should  be  provided  outside  of  elevator  to  pre- 
vent entrance  of  unauthorized  persons.  When  xnilitarj'  guards  can  not  be 
procured,  special  civilian  armed  guards  should  be  provided.  '^ 

"Where  practicable,  barbed  wire  fences  or  other  suitable  man-tight  inclosures 
should  be  erected. 

Special  electric-flood  lighting  should  be  provided  at  night  to  illuminate 
guarded  area  and  approaches  thereto. 

JS'o  persons  should  be  allowed  to  secure  admission  to  elevator  or  guarded 
iuclo.sure  except  upon  presentation  of  proper  pass  credential  and  a  special 
employee  should  be  designated  to  check  crews  of  vessels  tied  up  at  elevator,  as 
well  as  "  grain  levelers,"  observing  their  actions  while  at  work  and  that  all 
have  left  premises  when  loading  or  unloading  is  completed.  The  use  of  prop- 
erly authenticated  photographic  passes  is  recommended  for  inspectors  and  em- 
ployees. 


RECOMMENDATIONS    FOR    STORAGE   AND   HANDLING   OF 
BITUMINOUS  COAL. 

To  PiarvEWT  Spontaneous  Ignition  and  Fiue  Losses. 

It  is  important,  in  order  to  prevent  spontaneous  ignition,  that  the  following 
rules  l)e  complied  with  as  far  as  practicable: 

The  storage  ground  should  not  be  of  a  marshy  nature  or  be  subject  to  drain- 
age from  any  source. 

Coal  sbould  not  be  stored  near  external  sourceg  of  heat,  even  though  heat 
traiisniitte<i  be  mwlerate,  and  should  be  located  away  from  and  not  stored 
against  buildings. 

.\void  admission  of  air  to  interior  of  pile  through  interstices  ai'ound  foreign 
objfcts  such  as  timbers  or  irregular  brickwork  or  through  porous  bottoms,  such 
as  foarse  cinders. 

I»o  not  permit  pieces  of  wood,  oily  waste,  or  other  easily  combustible  material 
to  he  mixed  with  coal  during  storage,  as  they  may  form  a  starting  point  for  fir«. 

The  height  of  piles  should  i)e  limited  to  12  feet.  Arrange  piles  in  as  many 
units  as  possible,  restricting  the  length  and  width  as  far  as  possible,  in  order 
to  provide  spacing  not  only  for  ventilation  purpo.ses  but  to  expedite  rehandling 
If  necessary,  and  limit  amount  of  cofil  in  one  pile  subject  to  loss.  There  sliouUl 
iif  a  distnnfo  of  at  least  o  feet  between  iriles.  and  this  space  maintJiined  free 
for  coinjih'te  vpntilation  and  dispcision  of  occluded  gases. 

Pile  so  that  lump  an<l  tine  arc  tlistributed  as  evenly  as  possible;  not,  as  is 
offi'U  done,  allowing  lunijis  to  roll  down  from  the  peak  and  lorna  air  passages 
•"  the  bottom  of  the  pile. 

^Vhere  coal  is  st«m'pd  under  shelter  or  Inside  of  strnctui'e,  most  t)erfc<'t  snr- 
KM  t'  ventilation  should  be  secured  to  farililale  the  escape  of  ^ois  by  the  ciiH  ula- 
tioii  of  the  atmosiiliere. 

In  coal  with  a  tendency  toward  healing  temjici-ature  rises  are  conipaiativ  ely 

idual,  and  If  detec(**d  in  time  comiilet^;  comI)UKllou  n»ay  be  jirevenlcd  by  re- 
li.iurlllng.  If  ignition  point  is  reache<l,  lire  may  burn  for  a  considerable  time  in 
interior  of  pile  befttre  becoming  apparent.  For  tletection  and  prevenlion  of  lire, 
liojlow  iron  [»ijies  staggered  every  HO  feet  through  piles  may  he  us-ed,  driven 
within  1  foot  «ir  so  from  Ixittom,  those  japes  to  be  pointed  and  closed  at  lM»llom 
to  fncllitatp  installation  and  provided  with  a  stopper  tor  closingtlie  opening  at 
the  top,  to  pr.v'Mi   :,,iini~,,i,. ;mi      ihiily  ihcrmomuler  readings,  or  readings 


44  FIRE   rEOrEGTION    I'OR   KAILKOAD   PROPERTIES. 

every  few  days  should  be  taken  in  order  that  any  excessive  rise  in  temperature 
may  be  readily  detected,  and  when  temperature  has  reached  125  degrees  re- 
handling  should  be  started.  High  sulphur  coal  should  be  especially  watched, 
pwing  to  danger  of  "  heating." 

Wherever  it  is  possible  to  do  so,  all  wet  coal,  and  especially  that  wetted  by 
snow  and  ice,  should  be  disposed  of  for  immediate  use  without  first  being 
stowed ;  if,  however,  its  stowage  is  unavoidable,  it  should  form  the  top  of  the 
pile  and  be  spread  out  as  thinly  as  may  be  practicable  to  expedite  drying  by 
evaporation. 

The  only  effectual  way  of  extinguishing  fire  in  coal  storage  is  by  rehandling. 
Water  is  not  generally  successfully  applied  in  extinguishing  fire  in  a  coal  pile, 
because  it  is  impossible  thoroughly  to  saturate  pile ;  the  best  method  of  handling 
coal  in  danger  of  fire  is  to  load  it  out  and  saturate  it  so  that  it  will  be  thor- 
oughly cooled  off.  The  best  preventive  of  loss  in  coal  storage  is  constant  in- 
spection for  incipient  heating  and  immediate  removal  of  coal  from  spot  af- 
fected. Special  care  should  be  exercised  in  loading  out  coal  that  has  been  on 
fire  into  cars  for  passage  through  wooden  mechanical  coaling  plants,  to  see 
that  fire  has  been  extinguisheil  and  coal  is  not  heated.  Coal  which  has  a  tend- 
ency to  spontaneous  ignition  should  be  turned  over  frequently. 

Where  large  quantities  of  coal  are  stored,  special  watchman  protection,  day 
and  night,  should  be  provided,  watchman  registering  hourly  from  approved 
portable  clock  stations  properly  distributed.  Temperature  readings  should  be 
taken  by  watchman  at  least  once  during  the  night  and  proper  record  kept  of 
same. 


FREIGHT-CAR   HEATING. 

Before  cold  weather  provision  should  be  made  to  assure  proper  attention  by 
agents,  conductors,  car  inspectors,  and  others  to  the  serious  hazard  in  connec- 
tion with  the  use  of  heated  cars. 

No  heating  apparatus  should  be  permitted  that  has  not  been  approved  by 
proper  railroad  officials  and  rules  and  regulations  should  be  promulgated  for 
their  installation  and  operation.  The  use  of  gasoline  stoves  or  torches  should  be 
prohibited. 

All  heating  apparatus  should  be  overhauled,  repaired,  and  put  in  safe  condi- 
tion. 

Agent  at  point  of  origin  should  be  held  responsible  for  preparation  of  car  and 
should  not  permit  car  to  go  forward  unless  heating  apparatus  is  installed  iu 
accordance  with  rules. 

Car  inspectors  or  other  designated  employees  should  be  instructed  to  examine 
freight  cars  provided  with  heating  apparatus  and  if  installation  is  not  in 
accoi-dance  with  rules  or  otherwise  unsafe,  cars  must  not  be  allowed  to  proceed. 

Cars  equipped  with  heating  apparatus  should  not  be  placed  in  trains  or  stor- 
age yards  next  to  cars  bearing  explosive  or  inflammable  placards. 


AUTOMATIC  FIRE  PROTECTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

The  automatic  sprinkler,  when  properly  installed  and  kept  in  good  working 
erudition,  has  so  effectively  shown  its  ability  to  extinguish  fires  or  hold  them  iii 
check  that  we  can  not  ignore  it  and  its  usefulness  in  our  pursuit  of  safety 
from  loss  by  fii-e;  we  should,  therefore,  emphasize  the  importance  of  automatic 


FIEE   PROTECTIOX    FOE   EAILEOAD   PEOPEETIES.  45 

fire  protection  as  at  present  perfected  and  available  for  tlae  protection  of  rail- 
road structures  of  large  valuations  and  tlieir  highly  valued  and  inflammable 
contents,  as  well  as  for  the  protection  of  important  operations,  and  ask  that  a 
more  careful  study  be  given  to  the  subject,  bringing^  about  a  better  realization 
of  the  value  of  automatic  sprinklers  in  preventing  serious  fires. 

The  theory  of  fire  control  by  means  of  automatic  sprinklers  is  to  check  a  fire 
in  its  incipiency  through  the  agency  of  the  heat  of  the  fire  itself.  It  is  different 
from  other  means  of  safeguarding  property  from  destruction  by  fire  through 
the  fact  that  the  installation  is  entirely  automatic  and  always  on  duty ;  that  is, 
no  human  agent  is  required  to  operate  it,  the  fire  being  made  to  put  itself  out 
automatically.  The  system,  in  brief,  consists  of  lines  of  piping  carried  through 
a  building  near  the  ceilings  or  roofs,  parallel  thereto  and  in  all  covered  and 
inclosed  places,  attached  to  which  are  sprinkler  "  heads,"  each  covering  or  pro- 
tecting a  designated  area  of  floor  space,  the  piping  containing  water  under 
pressure,  the  sprinkler  head,  which  is  a  valve  device,  being  kept  closed  under 
normal  conditions  by  means  of  a  piece  of  fusible  metal,  having  a  low  melting 
point,  the  melting  temperature  varying  in  accordance  with  the  conditions  under 
which  the  apparatus  is  to  be  installed  and  used.  In  case  of  fire  the  fusible  part 
of  the  sprinkler  melts  as  soon  as  the  temperature  in  the  vicinity  of  the  sprinkler 
head  reaches  the  melting  point  of  the  solder,  the  strut  or  levers  are  released, 
and  the  water  is  discharged  through  the  opening  against  the  deflector  and 
showered  upon  the  flames  in  the  form  of  a  heavy  water  spray. 

The  amount  of  water  discharged  of  coui-se  depends  upon  the  water  pressure, 
ranging  from  12  gallons  of  water  per  minute  under  5  pounds  pressure  to  50 
gallons  per  minute  at  70  pounds  pressure. 

The  usual  type  of  automatic  sprinkler  system  is  known  as  the  "  wet  "  pipe 
system,  the  pipes  being  constantly  kept  full  of  water  under  pressure,  which  is 
showered  upon  a  fire  as  soon  as  the  sprinkler  head  opens.  A  "  dry  "  system 
is  used,  however,  in  locations  where  there  is  danger  that  the  water  will  freeze, 
and  in  such  ca.ses  the  exposed  pipes  in  the  system  contain  air  under  pressure, 
the  water  being  excluded  from  the  pipes  back  to  a  safety  point  by  special 
"dr:  .  ipe  valves,"  in  which  ca.se  when  the  sprinkler  heads  open  the  conipr©»iied 
jiir  is  released,  the  dry-jiipe  valve  opens  and  admits  the  water.  Wherever 
there  is  no  danger  of  freezing  the  "  wet "  system  is  preferable,  because  of  a 
quicker  application  of  the  water  and  the  fact  that  there  is  not  a  complication  of 
dry-pipe  valves.  Dry-pipe  systems  are  subject  to  more  complication,  both  in 
operation  and  maintenance,  the  wet-pipe  system  being  also  more  readily  placed 
back  in  service  after  operation.  It  Is  advisable  wherever  possible  to  u.se  a 
wet  sj'stem,  and  frequently  it  will  cost  less  to  install  the  amount  of  steam 
piping  necessary  to  maintain  the  temperature  of  the  building  above  freezing 
than  the  cost  of  installing  the  extra  (-(luipinent  for  the  dry  system.  The  wet 
system  is  more  eflicieiit,  in  that  in  a  dry  system  after  n  Sprinkler  opens  it  might 
n-quire  from  one  to  two  niiinitfs  to  exhaust  tin'  air  in  llic  piiics  before  (he  water 
riarhes  the  orifice. 

The  cfliciency  of  a  sprinkler  system  (h-pends  entirely  on  having  reliable  sources 
it  water  supply,  tw(»  soun-es  wherever  possible,  and  both  inider  sulliciiMil  volume 
and  pressure  as  to  be  thoroughly  deixMidable  and  ample  at  all  times,  and  natu- 
rally every  po.ssible  i)recautlon  must  be  taken  to  la-fvent  interrui)tion  of  tlio 
service.  Sources  for  such  supplies  are  public  mains,  private  water  systems, 
gravity  and  pre.-^sure  tanks  and  steam  and  electric  driven  pumps.  Attachments 
may  also  be  made  for  city  fire  engines  to  connect  with  the  system.  Full  delaila 
as  to  water  supply  and  eonsiru'tion  of  .systems  nuist  necessarily  be  taken  into 


46  FIRE   PROTECTilOasr   FOE   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

consideration  with  the  character,  occupancy,  and  location  of  the  property  to  be 
protected,  mid,  fi'om  an  eng'ineerin^  standpoint,  it  is  therefore  necessary  to 
view  the  requirements  of  each  property  and  the  availfible  facilities  in  consider- 
ing such  installations.  — 

When  the  cost  of  such  installations,  distributed  over  a  peri<xd  of  years,  is  con- 
sidered in  relation  to  the  values  of  building  and  <!outents,  it  may  be  considered 
a  most  economic  form  of  protection,  and  valuable  not  only  as  conserving  a  large 
valuation  from  possible  loss  but  as  protecting  the  operation  of  tiie  property. 
Large  shop  structures  in  railroad  operation,"  including  general  storeliouses, 
v.here  large  valuations  are  found  incident  to  supplies,  machine  shops,  foundries, 
planing  mills,  car  erecting,  painting  and  repair  shops  and  coaling  stations, 
are  illustrations  of  large  values  found  on  railroads,  and  where  this  cla>ss  of  pro- 
tection would  be  most  valuable,  as  experience  has  frequently  shown  that  fires 
once  started  in  the  roofs  of  large  shops  improtected  by  sprinklers  are  practically 
incapable  of  being  controlled  by  hose  streams,  no  matter  how  efficient  tlie  fire 
brigade,  for  the  reason  that  such  roofs  are  very  dry,  almost  tinder  as  it  were, 
and  only  require  a  spark  to  ignite  them,  and  the  currents  of  air  which  always 
exist  in  large  buildings  sweep  the  fire  rapidly  along  the  roof  unless  controlled  at 
its  start,  which  is  the  function  of  the  sprinkier.  Terminal  warehouses  and  piers, 
through  which  not  only  large  quantities  of  freight  are  constantly  moving,  but 
stored,  are  other  types  of  property  where  this  class  of  protection  is  most 
valuable. 

The  regulations  of  the  National  Boai'd  of  Fire  Underwriters  governing  tlie 
installation  of  automatic  sprinkler  equipments  recommended  by  the  National 
Fire  Protection  Association  should  be  carefully  followed,  and  all  plans  for  the 
installation  of  automatic  sprinkler  apparatus  should  be  in  accoi'd  with  the 
i-egulations. 


STEAM  FIRE  PUMPS. 

Denign  should  be  standard.  "Trade"  pumps,  especially  if  of  old  desi-n, 
fi'equently  are  unable  to  meet  demands  of  fire  service. 

Location. — Pumps  should  preferably  be  located  in  fireproof  room,  as  near 
to  boiler  as  possible,  cut  off  from  rest  of  plant  and  accessible  from  outside. 
An  unexposed  separate  building  for  pump  and  boiler  is  preferred. 

Alamtenan-oei — Pump  should,  be  always  in  the  best  of  condition,  ready  for 
instant  service.  Tests  will  usually  develop  defects.  Leaking  valves,  defec- 
tive packing,  worn  piston  rods,  etc.,  are  frequent  defects. 

Steam  supply  should  be  examined  with  a  view  to  the  following: 

(1)  Steam  main  or  mains  should  be  run  in  such  a  manner  as  to  be  free  from 
possible  damage  through  burning  of  buildings  and  falling  of  walls. 

(2)  Mains  should  be  run  as  direct  as  possible.  Throttle  valve  should  be  of 
globe  pattern  and  should  always  be  in  horizontal  pipe. 

(3)  Main  should  be  an  independent  line  from  header  on  boiler. 

(4)  AH  other  connections  in  boiler  house  should  have  valves  in  boiler  house, 
60  as  to  concentrate  the  supply  to  pump. 

(5)  If  supplied  by  two  lines,  eaeii  line  should  be  valved  in  boiler  house,  and 
also  in  pump  room. 

(6)  Steam  line  should  be  properly  trapped  so  as  to  take  care  of  condensa- 
tion, and  so  installed  as  to  take  care  of  expansion  and  contraction. 

(7)  Minimum  steam  pressure  of  50  pounds  sh'mld  be  maintained  at  all  times. 
(S)   Recording  steam  gauge  preferably  should  be  provided,  to  be  careiuUy 

examined,  and  dials  to  be  filed  daily. 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOE   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  47 

Cylinder  cocks,  on  bottom  of  steam  cylinders,  must  be  kept  open  so  as  to 
relieve  cylinders  from  condensation,  and  tliey  should  discharge  into  open  cups 
connected  with  sewer. 

Suction  connection. — ^Pump  taking  water  under  head  must  have  indicator 
or  O.  S.  and  Y.  valve  in  each  suction  supply.  Where  pump  takes  suction  under 
lift,  a  foot  valve  may  be  supplied  where  lift  approximates  15  feet  or  where 
suction  pipe  is  long.  Strainers  are  generally  needed  where  suction  is  taken 
from  reservoir  or  stream.  Orifice  of  sti-ainers  should  be  ten  times  the  area  of 
suction  pipe.  Suction  wells  or  sumps  are  sometimes  advisable,  intakes  thereto 
to  be  properly  screened. 

Priming  tank. — This  must  be  provided  where  pumps  take  suction  under  a  lift, 
uiiiess  there  is  another  reliable  soui-ce  of  water  supply  for  priming.  A  priming 
tank  should  have  a  capacity  of  not  less  than  one-half  of  the  rated  capacity 
of  pump. 

Reservoir. — If  reservoir  is  provided  with  automatic  fill  connection,  its  efTi- 
cienfy  should  be  tested  by  drawing  water  from  reservoir. 

DiscTiarge  connection. — Gate  valve  in  the  discharge  line  must  be  open  at  all 
times. 

Care  and  tests. — The  following  is  suggested: 

(1)  Pump  room  should  l)e  kept  clean,  heated,  and  well  lighted. 

(2)  Pump  to  be  kept  well  lubricated  at  all  times. 

(H)  Ample  supply  of  oils  to  be  kept  in  pump  room,  in  metal  cans,  with  drip 
pjins. 

f4)  Pump  to  be  run  at  least  once  a  week,  for  a  period  of  several  minutes, 
preferably  at  full  capacity. 

(~))   See  if  relief  valve  is  properly  adjusted. 

(6)  At  each  inspection  run  the  pump  and  discharge  through  relief  valve. 

Automatic  rcf/ulator. — If  provided,  automatic  regulator  should  be  adjusted 
to  maintain  a  pressure  of  75  pounds  at  the  ground  level,  plus  any  additional 
pressure  which  may  be  required  to  maintain  25  pounds  pressure  upon  highest 
sju'iiiklers  in  sprinklen^d  projiertios. 

Automatic  regulator  should  be  of  approved  tyije.  Many  now  in  use  are  poorly 
designed. 

Hognlator  should  be  tested,  and  required  to  maintain  the  desired  water 
pressure  (williin  10  per  cent)  at  any  si)eed  of  pump  from  zero  to  full  speed. 

Regulator  should  always  be  placed  on  l)y-pass,  having  valve  above  and  below 
to  permit  of  repairs;  valve  in  addition  to  be  provided  in  main  line. 

Aiiriliary  pump,  if  used  to  prevent  noedle.ss  travel 'on  the  part  of  fire  pump, 
shfiiild  have  regulator  sot  about  5  to  10  pound.s  higher  than  regulator  on 
fire  pump.  Auxiliary  pump  yliould  be  of  approved  type,  and  not  less  in  size 
than  7  by  3  by  0  inches. 

Fire  pumps  should  not  be  use*!  for  domestic  scrvi<'c. 


RECOMMENDATIONS  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  PRIVATE  FIRE 

BRIGADES. 

TnKin  On(;ANizATioN,  Maintenanck,  and  Uhefulnkss. 

Wlien  a  fire  nrcurs.  excitement  and  confusion  oflpn  prevail;  and  as  fires  in 
any  class  of  property  are  ordinarily  not  extiiimiiKbed  by  pouring  water  into  llic 
building  promiscuously,  but  shoiild  l>e  scientifically  and  carelully  sought  out 
and  fought,  Ihe  private  fire  brigade,  trained  in  the  use  of  fire  apparatus,  it) 
most  important. 


48  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

Exporlence  has  shown  lliat  the  efforts  of  undrilled  employees,  however  well 
intended,  will  not  control  a  fire  as  promptly  as  a  disciplined  force  made  familiar 
with  the  protective  apparatus  by  regular  drill  and  practice. 

No  fire  brigade  can  be  a  success  unless  the  management  of  the  propertij,  both 
general  and  local,  arc  first  interested  and  believe  in  it  and  arc  xvilUng  to  en- 
courage the  men. 

The  principle  of  a  private  fire  brigade  organization  is  essentially  that  of 
mutual  protection ;  to  the  management  the  safeguarding  and  preservation  of 
the  property ;  to  the  employees  their  permanent  occupation. 

The  thorough  organization  and  drilling  of  private  fire  brigades  greatly  en- 
hances the  value  of  and  is  a  necessary  adjunct  to  the  use  of  private  fire  ap- 
paratus, which  in  large  properties  is  purchased  and  installed  at  considerable 
expense.  Many  properties,  such  as  shops,  mills,  and  terminals  of  transportatioa 
lines,  are  isolated,  depending  more  or  less  (in  some  instances  absolutely)  on  the 
efforts  of  the  employees  to  extinguish  fires.  Such  drilled  employees  are  also 
of  more  assistance  to  the  public  fire  department,  when  available,  than  an  un- 
disciplined force,  and  should  ahcays  be  in  full  harmony  tmtli  the  public  de- 
partment. 

The  manner  of  organizing  a  fire  brigade  in  any  property  will  necessarily 
depend  upon  its  size  and  character,  as  well  as  upon  the  character  of  the  fire- 
extinguishing  apparatus  used  or  required  (the  kind  and  amount  of  apparatus 
needed  will  depend  upon  the  size,  construction,  number,  and  distribution  of 
buildings  to  be  protected).  The  following  detailed  suggestions  for  the  forma- 
tion and  maintenance  of  private  brigades  embrace  sufficient  general  data  upon 
which  to  base  an  organization,  either  large  or  small,  and  can  readily  be  modi- 
fied and  applied  to  suit  the  requirements  of  each  individual  case. 

GENERAL   SUGGESTIONS. 

The  entire  brigade  can  be  made  up  from  employees  of  any  property  with  but 
little  interference  with  their  other  duties.  It  is  important  thatvall  large  prop- 
erties should  have  the  constant  service  of  a  private  fire  organization,  and 
therefore  in  planning  one  consideration  should  be  given  to  not  only  the  organiza- 
tion of  brigades  for  regular  day  service,  but  for  nights,  Sundays,  and  holidays ; 
in  other  words,  the  property  should  never  be  without  the  prompt  service  of 
trained  men.  There  should  always  be  a  specific  number  of  men  in  each  com- 
pany, and  vacancies  should  be  filled  as  soon  as  they  occur. 

The  selection  of  men  for  a  fire  brigade  should  be  made  from  the  regular, 
steady  employees,  who  are  cool-headed  and  well  posted  as  to  all  the  buildings 
and  their  various  parts.  It  is  well  to  appoint  such  men  as  live  within  hearing 
distance  of  the  fire  signal,  if  possible.  There  should  be  some  means  of  identifi- 
cation for  admission  to  the  property  during  nights,  Sundays,  and  holidays  pro- 
vided members  of  the  fire  brigade.    A  fire-brigade  badge  would  be  suitable. 

The  ideal  private  fire  brigade  should  be  organized  under  a  special  constitu- 
tion and  by-laws  and  hold  regular  meetings. 

The  members  should  be  subject  to  discipline,  and  acts  of  unusual  merit 
involving  personal  risk  and  endurance  should  be  fittingly  rewarded  by  the 
authorities. 

Membership  in  the  brigade  should  of  itself  confer  distinction  and,  if  possible, 
carry  with  it  some  privilege  sufficiently  attractive  to  make  membership  desir- 
able and  sought  after.  Various  means  may  be  adopted  to  secure  these  features. 
There  could  be  elubroonis,  with  a  view  of  encouraging  social  intercourse 
through  the  medium  of  the  fire-brigade  organization,  special  remuneration  for 
services,  annual  tournaments  between  different  shop  brigades,  with  suitable 
prizes. 


FIRE   PKOTECTIOX   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  49 

An  organization  in  a  large  property  consisting  of  several  companies,  com- 
posed of  a  small  number  of  men  in  each,  Is  desirable  and  makes  it  possible 
for  better  direction  with  less  confusion  in  connection  with  the  worl^  of  fire 
extinguishment. 

While  special  duties  arc  suggested  for  members  of  the  companies  comprising 
the  brigade  or  department,  as  given  in  detail  following,  every  man  should  be 
so  instructed  and  drilled  that  he  may  perform  any  of  the  other  duties  out- 
lined and  be  avaihable  for  whatever  duty  may  be  assigned  him  at  the  time  of 
a   tiro. 

OKGANIZATION. 

'i'li.'  fire  department  should  consist  of  the  following: 


The  head  of  the  fire  brigade  should  be- some  one  ordinarily  in  authority  on  the 
premises,  and  should  preferably  be  a  man  with  somp  experience  in  fire-depart- 
ment operations.  He  should  be  held  responsible  for  the  care  and  condition 
of  all  fire-fighting  appliances,  be  given  ample  authority  in  such  matters,  and 
have  entire  charge  of  the  employees  and  fire  brigades  during  fires  and  practice 
drills.  He  should  make  frequent  inspections  of  the  property  and  equipment 
and  make  at  least  monthly  reports  of  the  operations  of  the  fire  brigade  and 
of  the  condition  of  the  property  and  the  fire  apparatus  to  those  higher  in 
authority,  such  as  the  manager,  superintendent,  or  master  mechanic;  and  if 
any  part  of  the  apparatus  is  missing  or  out  of  order,  personally  see  that  it  is 
reiilaced  or  corrected.  He  should  be  familiar  with  all  water  supplies,  pipes, 
valves,  etc.,  and  tlieir  service  and  purposes. 

ASSISTANT    CHIEF. 

It  may  be  desirable,  in  some  instances,  to  have  more  than  one  assistant 
cliief.  This  oflicer  should  be  a  reliable  man  who  is  in  attendance  at  tlie 
property  the  greater  part  of  the  time,  and  one  who  has  authority  over  the  men. 
Tlie  assistant  chief  will  as.sume  the  duties  of  the  chief  in  his  absence,  and 
it  is  desirable,  under  the  organization,  to  arrange,  wherever  possible,  that 
eltlicr  tiie  chief  or  one  of  the  assistant  chiefs  is  always  on  the  property. 

llof<c  coinixntics. 

Tlie  iiiiiiiliiT  t)f  hoso  companies  should  ordinarily  be  ctiual  to  one-half  the  ttital 
iiiiMiber  of  the  possible  fire  streams  that  can  be  played  on  any  one  fire.  How- 
ever, all  largo  single  building  properties  should  have  one  full  company,  even 
thougli  only  used  as  a  bucket  and  fire  extinguisher  brigade.  The  number  of 
men  in  each  company  should  ordinarily  be  10,  including  the  captain  and  lieu- 
tenant, in  order  that  all  Ihe  duties  may  be  properly  performed,  the  men  being 
designated  as  follows: 

T'aptain. 

Lieutenant, 

Six  hose  and  nozzle  nu>n. 

I  wo  hydrant  men, 

r,\rTMV. 

Tlie  rai.tain  shall  be  in  charge  of  a  rniiipaiiy  under  (he  dlre<(i..n  of  (lit^  chief 
11  ml  shall  be  responsible  to  the  chlff  for  Ihc  condition  of  the  appliances  under 
his  charge. 

'     84505°— rj 4 


50  FIRE   PEOTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

LIKUTENANT. 

The  lieutenant  shall  assist  the  captain  or  take  his  place  in  event  of  his 
absence. 

HYDRANT    MEN. 

These  men  shall  make'  the  hyclvant  connections  and  have  charge  of^  the 
hydrant,  subject  to  the  orders  of  their  superiors,  one  man  to  stay  at  the  hydrant 
all  the  time,  the  other  to  assist  in  handling  the  hose. 

HOSK    MEN    OR    NOZZLE    MEN. 

These  men  should  draw  hose  cart  and  assist  in  laying  lines  of  hose  and  have 
charge  of  the  nozzle ;  three  men  to  each  stream. 

Chemical  engine  company. 

Tliere  should  be  at  least  six  men  in  each  company,  including  captain  and 
lieutenant.  Two  men  should  have  charge  of  operating  the  engine  tanlc,  and  of 
recharging  same.  These  men  should  be  held  responsil>le  for  the  proper  charging 
and  condition  of  the  engine  at  all  times,  also  for  having  extra  charges  at  hand. 
Two  men  to  be  selected  to  carry  hpse  and  direct  nozzle. 

Ladder  companies. 

Where  there  are  high  buildings  it  is  essential  that  ladder  companies,  inde- 
pendent of  the  hose  companies,  should  be  organized.  They  should  be  in  charge 
of  a  captain,  who  should  have  a  sufficient  number  of  men,  ordinarily  about  six, 
including  a  lieutenant,  and  should  raise  the  necessary  ladders,  assist  in  enter- 
ing buildings,  rooms,  etc.,  and  prepare  proper  access  for  the  hose  men.  Per- 
manent ladders  attached  to  the  sides  of  buildings  for  reaching  roofs  greatly 
facilitate  the  work  of  the  firemen. 

Engineers. 

The  chief  engineer  of  the  plant,  under  the  directions  of  the  fire  chief,  should 
have  the  immediate  charge  of  the  entire  pumping  system  and  be  provided  with 
a  sufficient  number  of  assistants  to  look  after  pumps,  boilers,  or  motors  and  see 
that  tlie  requisite  water  pressure  is  maintained. 

Valves. 

If  water  system  is  controlled  by  valves  which  i-equire  turning  in  case  of,fii-e 
under  direction  of  the  chief,  the  engineer  or  captain  of  one  of  the  companies 
should  be  in  charge  of  all  the  valves,  either  he  or  one  of  his  assistants  slionld 
attend  to  opening  any  valves  controlling  primary  or  supplementary  water  service. 
This  is  a,  very  important  duty,  as  in  the  confusion  of  a  fire  it  has  often  been 
demonstrated  that  the  ivrong  valves  are  opened  or  closed;  or  valves  operated 
at  the  VM'ong  time,  seriously  interfering  with  the  toater  supply  and  pressure. 

Salvage  corps. 

It  is  important  that  a  number  of  trustworthy  employees,  under  a  foreman, 
should  be  organized  and  instructed  concerning  the  best  course  to  follow  in 
saving  property  from  fire  or  water  damage.  These  men  should  be  utilized  to 
proceed  immediately  to  the  scene  of  the  fire  and  cover  all  machinery  and  stock 
with  waterproof  covers  to  prevent  water  damage.  This  organization  should  be 
provided  with  the  necessary  paraphernalia,  such  as  rubber  blankets,  or  what- 
ever may  be  required  to  cover  the  contents  of  a  building.    After  a  fire  they  can 


rmE  PROTECTION   FOB   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  51 

be  utilized  in  sweeping  out  or  wiping  oft  machiuery,  and  draining  off  or  sop- 
ping up  water,  separating  tlie  undamaged  from  the  damaged  property,  and 
otherwise  preventing  further  damage  to  the  property. 

Apparatus  inside  buildings. 

Buildings  equipped  with  hand  tire  appai-atus  shoidd  liave  men  designated 
to  operate  each  special  device  as  follows : 

One  man  for  each  chemical  fire  extinguisher. 

One  man  for  each  two  buckets  of  water. 

Two  men  for  each  water  barrel  and  buckets. 

Two  men  for  each  standpipe  and  hose  connected  thereto. 

It  is  preferable  to  select  men  working  in  the  particuhir  building  to  perform 
these  duties,  for  instance,  detail  the  men  nearest  to  each  lire  appliance  the 
special  duty  of  getting  that  particular  apparatus  into  action  in  the  event  of 
fire  in  thai  building.  All  the  above  men  to  be  under  the  authority  of  the  fire 
brigade,  but  not  necessarily  members. 

General. 

When  an  alarm  of  fire  is  sounded,  all  members  of  fire  brigade  must  instsiutly 
proceed  to  the  position  assigned  them,  regardless' of  the  nature  of  their  employ- 
ment at  the  time,  and  be  subject  to  and  carry  out  the  orders  of  the  chief,  assist- 
ant chief,  or  captain  of  their  respective  companies. 

In  the  event  of  a  fire,  the  chief  should  give  immediate  orders  to  have  tlie 
machinery  stopped  in  the  building  where  the  fire  fighting  is  going  on;  and  the 
elpctrtcian  should  take  such  action  as  will  insui-e  safety  to  life  and  property 
endangered  from  electrical  equipment.  If  gas  or  oil  are  piped  into  buildings 
for  any  purpose  the  supply  should  be  immediately  cut  off. 

All  emi)loyees,  regardless  of  whether  tliey  are  members  of  the  fire  depart- 
ment, should  be  instituted,  on  discovering  a  fire,  to  inmiediately  somid  an 
alarm  from  the  nearest  fire-alarm  station,  and  in  the  manner  shown  by  dire(*- 
tions,  which  should  be  conspicuously  posted  at  each  station,  and  also  make  an 
immediate  effort  to  extinguish  the  fire  with  the  apparatus  at  hand.  All  em- 
ployees, nor  members  of  the  fire  brigade  should,  if  called  upon,  give  assistance 
in  case  of  fire,  and  should  obey  tlie  orders  of  the  chief. 

Kigid  Inspection  of  aiyfire  apparatus  and  fire  hazards  should  be  made  luider 
the  dire<-tlon  of  the  chief  by  one  of  the  captains  or  a  member  of  a  company  at 
letist  once  a  week  to  see  that  every  piece  of  apparatus  is  in  its  place  and  in 
good  offler  re;idy  for  nse.  A  report  of  such  inspection  sliould  be  made  to  the 
chief. 

In  builflings  eqtiijiped  with  automatic  sprinklers  a  comprehensive  system  of 
inspection  of  all  sprinkler  valves  and  wsiter  supplies  should  be  maintained. 

It  is  desirnble  after  ea<h  day's  work  is  finished  to  have  one  man  designated  in 
idi  building  to  see  that  the  fire  apv)ara(tis  is  in  goo<l  condition  and  ready  for 
le  use  of  the  nlfrtit  watchmHU  if  ntx-cssary. 

AU  infinlwrs  of  th<^  fire  brigade  should  ffindliiivize  themselves  willi  the  regu- 
ition«  and  organization  of  the  entire  department,  and  they  should  be  refjuired 
lo  report  to  their  <aptain  or  cliief  when  they  cxp<^ct  to  be  ab.sent,  so  that  llieir 
plnccs  may  lie  filled. 

It  Is  well  to  cnlljjie  lire  brigade  together  occasi<mally  for  instruction  along 
il  lines,  inchHling  h.i/.iirds  incident  to  the  itroperty.  clejinline.ss,  cure,  and  use 
of  fire  apjiiiratns.  cau«e«  of  fires,  iind  liiive  these  mnttfrs  roiitinuiilly  impressed 
upon  all  emjiloyees. 

In  lurge  freight  houses  or  around  transfer  platforms  where  many  car.s  are 
tlored   s".vttr!il    men  outside   of   tin-   ln-igade   orgauizatiou   should    have   as   au 


52  riJRE  PROTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

assigned  duty,  on  the  sounding  of  the  fire  alarm,  the  removal  of  all  gangplanks 
between  cars  and  between  cars  and  platform,  so  that  there  will  be  no  wrecking 
of  cars  and  proveutiug  their  removal  wlicn  j'ard  engines  start  to  pull  cars  to 
safety. 

It  is  recommended  that  "  Instructions  and  Rules  Governing  the  Fire  Depart- 
ment "  be  printed  and  posted  in  conspicuous  places  throughout  the  property,  so 
that  all  employees  may  become  familiar  with  them.     These  should  show : 

1.  The  detail  of  men  with  respective  duties. 

2.  Brief  instructions  as  to  the  duties  of  each  detail. 

3.  Location  of  fire-alarm  stations  with  box  numbers. 

4.  Instructions  for  sending  alarm. 

5.  How  alarm  will  be  sounded  on  whistle  or  gongs,  sending  city  alarm,  and 
such  miscellaneous  instructions  as  may  be  selected  from  the  suggestions  here 
given. 

riKE    DRILLS. 

Practice  drills  should  be  held  as  frequently  as  possible,  at  least  once  every 
two  weeks,  and  preferably  at  times  without  previous  notice,  in  order  to  test  the 
readiness  of  the  brigade  to  respond  to  an  actual  fire  call.  It  is  also  advisable 
to  arrange  for  night  .drills  with  such  employees  as  have  been  organized  into 
night  brigades.  It  would  be  well  to  make  a  regular  record  of  drills  and  report 
the  date  on  which  held,  together  with  the  time  of  the  alarm,  the  number  of 
companies  and  men  responding,  the  time  it  took  to  respond ;  and  if  water  is 
used,  the  length  of  time  it  took  to  get  it  into  service,  together  wuth  the  fire 
district  the  test  was  made  in,  and  the  method  of  sounding  alarm.  Such  report 
of  brigade  drills  could  be  kept  on  file  for  reference  of  officials  or  submitted 
for  their  information. 

Rivalry  between  the  hose  companies  is  a  good  thing,  in  respect  to  quick  service, 
aHd  should  be  encouraged,  and  a  record  kept  of  the  time  of  responding  to 
alarms. 

It  is  very  important  to  instruct  beginners  in  fire  fighting  in  the  proper  laying 
and  coupling  of  hose;  the  difference  between  left  and  right  hand  threads  and 
how  to  make  coupling  connections  so  as  not  to  cross  the  thread ;  the  opening 
and  closing  of  hydrants;  unreeling  hose  from  hose  cart  or  getting  it  out  of 
lijdrant  hose  house  and  laying  lines  of  hose  from  the  hydrant ;  to  lay  enough, 
not  too  much  or  too  little,  for  the  service  required ;  how  to  raise  ladders;  how  to 
handle  nozzles  and  direct  streams  of  water ;  how  to  mount  roofs  from-  scaling 
ladders;  and  theiuse  of  hooks,  axes,  etc. 

Drills  should  include  laying  lines  of  hose  and  carrying  them  into  and  onto 
the  different  buildings,  in  order  that  the  men  may  become  familiar  with  handling 
the  hose  and  making  the  coui:>ling  connections  rapidly  and  without  confusion. 
The  chief  should  direct  where  ladders  should  be  placed  and  where  hose  should 
be  carried  and  streams  directed.  As  a  general  rule,  except  in  freezing  weather, 
pump  should  be  started  and  water  turned  on  to  accustom  the  men  to  the  recoil 
and  weight.  It  is  well  to  select  for  each  drill  a  different  building,  assuming  the 
one  selected  or  the  adjoining  one  to  be  on  fire ;  and  practice  drills  should  be 
made  in  response  to  an  alarm  with  the  full  Service  and  discipline  in  effect  as  in 
case  of  actual  fire  from  the  sending  in  of  the  alarm  down  to  the  most  minute 

detail. 

To  protect  men  from  accidents  on  ladders,  ladder  straps  should  be  used 
with  hose  intended  to  be  carried  onto  buildings  to  take  the  weight  off  the  men 
and  place  it  on  the  ladders. 


riEE  PROTECTIOX  FOE  EAILKO-U)  PROPERTIES.         53 

Hose  lines  with  water  should  never  be  manned  on  a  I'oof  with  less  than  three 
men,  and  thej-  should  be  assisted  by  extra  men  to  pass  signals  and  to  assist  in 
case  the  hose  becomes  unmanageable. 

During  practice  special  attention  should  be  given  to  the  lajing  of  hose  without 
twists  or  kinks,  avoiding  all  short  turns  or  bends  at  any  place,  beginning  at  the 
hydrant  and  throughout  the  length  of  the  hose,  the  play  pipe  being  held  so  as 
to  make  a  gradual  curve  of  the  hose  from  the  ground  up ;  otherwise  twists  or 
k'nks  are  liable  to  pull  the  hose  away  from  the  pipemen  when  the  water  is 
1  urned  on,  making  it  impossible  to  hold  the  pipe,  or  the  hose  is  liable  to  burst  or 
be  weakened,  interfering  with  the  free  flow  of  water. 

At  times  when  conditions  are  favorable,  a  sufficient  number  of  hose  lines 
should  be  stretched  to  test  the  maximum  woi'king  capacity  of  the  water  dis- 
tribution system. 

At  the  conclusion  of  the  drill  and  on  order  from  the  chief,  the  companies 
sliould  return  all  apparatus  to  its  proper  place  and  see  that  it  is  in  readiness 
to  respond  to  subsequent  calls.  If  the  hose  has  been  wet.  It  should  be  placed 
upon  a  drying  rack  and  thoroughly  dried  before  being  placed  on  the  carts  or  in 
hydrant  hose  houses.  A  supply  of  dry  hose  should  be  on  the  cart  while  the  hose 
which  was  in  use  is  drying. 

EQt'lPilENT   AND   SUPPLIES. 

The  following  is  necessary  for  the  complete  equipment  of  a  fire  brigade,  the 
amount  necessarily  depending  on  the  extent  of  the  property : 

Sufficient  fire  hose  to  concentrate,  if  necessary,  the  total  capacity  of  the 
water  supply  upon  any  building  or  section  of  the  property, 

A  thoroughly  good  quality  of  standard  2J-inch  cotton,  rubber-lined  fire 
hose  is  require<l,  the  couplings  to  correspond  to  those  of  the  city  fire 
department.  (See  special  article  on  purchase,  use.  and  care  of  fire 
hose.) 

Standard  liydrant-hose  houses  or  hose-cart  house  for  keeping  equipment. 

A  supply  of  standard  play  pipes  to  be  distributed  with  the  equipment 
of  hose,  riay  pipes  should  have  a  plain,  smooth  nozzle,  and  care  .should 
be  taken  that  its  thread  corresponds  with  the  thread  on  the  hose  coupling, 
riay  pipes  should  be  handled  carefully  so  as  not  to  dent  them.  The 
Muoothiiess  of  the  bore  in  them  is  important  for  a  good  stream.  The 
tips  or  nozzle  outlets  should  be  of  size  to  suit  water  supply  and  pres- 
sure. 

A  supply  of  hose  spanners,  and  plug  wrenclies  should  be  provi<k'd  and 
distributed  with  the  hose  equipment  and  kept  (jii  (he  liose  carls  and 
in  tlie  hose  houses. 

Firo  axes  and  bars  .should  be  carriiMl  on  all  hose  and  hulder  carts  or 
distributed    in   liose  liouses. 

Coils  of  one-half-in«-h  hemp  rope  with  snap  hooks  for  (he  hose  and 
ladder  companies,  the  length  to  l)e  about  two  and  one-half  times  the 
licight  of  the  highest  building. 

A  supply  of  water  barrels  an<l  fire  pails  for  eaeh  building. 

A   suiiply   of  lanterns  of  a   pattern   which   will   lu-event   the   liiiiip   Iteiiig 

drojiped  through  the  bottom  of  body  or  exlinguishetl  by   a   spray   of 

water  striking  It.     Tlie  glass  should  be  guarded  with  a  fender. 

liose  drying  racks  or  towers  are  es.senllal  for  the  proper  care  of  hose  after 

ser\i<e.     Tta'-ks  .should  bo  nia«le  long  enougli   to  take  full  lengths,  50  feet  of 

ho.sc,  and  inclined  sufficiently  to  allow  drainage. 


54         FIRE  PROTECTION  TOB  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

A  "  nozzle  rest "  should  be  provided  for  use  in  case  of  extra  heavy  pressure 
and  strong  streams,  for  attaching  to  the  play  pipes,  by  the  use  of  which  one  man 
can  hold  and  direct  the  stream. 

Chemical  hand  fire  extinguishers,  other  than  those  furnished  and  distributed 
in  accessible  and  conspicuous  places  throughout  the  property,  should  be  pro- 
vided for  the  use  of  the  fire  brigades.  (See  special  articles  on  chemical  lire 
extinguishers.) 

Hose  carts  should  be  strong,  light,  and  simple  in  construction,  having  a 
c;apacity  of  from  300  to  500  feet  of  hose,  the  capacity  to  depend  on  the  distri- 
bution of  the  hose  throughout  the  property.  If  hose  is  distributed  in  houses 
or  on  reels  at  hydrants,  the  supply  of  hose  on  cart  is  to  suppleiiieut  same. 

Ladder  truck  should  be  well  and  sti-ongly  made  and  easily  handled  by  six 
men.  It  should  be  equipped  with  extension  ladders  of  sufficient  length  to  reach 
the  highest  roofs,  where  practical,  besides  single  ladders,  fire  axes,  lanterns, 
tool  box,  etc.  If  permanent  laddei*s  have  been  erected  on  the  buildings,  the 
provision  of  the  ladder  truck  is  not  so  essential. 

COOPERATION     WITH    CITY    FIRE    DEPARTMENTS. 

It  would  be  desirable  to  invite  the  chief  and  other  members  of  the  public 
fire  department  to  go  through  the  property  and  explain  to  them  the  installa- 
tion of  the  private  equipment  and  private  fire  organization  and  their  purposes; 
have  them  inspect  the  property  periodically  so  that  they  may  become  familiar 
with  the  arrangement  of  the  buildings,  location  of  fire  hydrants,  valves,  etc., 
so  that  in  case  of  necessity  they  may  have  a  knowledge  'grf  the  conditions  and 
private  facilities  for  fighting  fires. 

Employees  should  be  detailed  to  pilot  the  firemen  to  the  fire  by  the  safest 
and  most  dii-ect  route  and  to  render  such  other, assistance  as  may  be  needful. 

FmB    ALABMS    AND    ALARM    SYSTEMS. 

With  a  properly  organized  fire-fighting  force,  the  fire-alarm  system  is  in- 
stalled with  a  ^^ew  of  diminishing  the  time  elapsing  between  the  discovery  of 
a  fire  and  the  bringing  into  use  of  the  fire  apparatus,  and  such  adjunct  is 
therefore  quite  necessary. 

The  character  of  such  system  will  naturally  depend  upon  the  size  and  ext(>nt 
of  the  property  and  its  charactei',  and  will  vary  from  a  gong  installed  for  m;in- 
'  ual  pull  to  an  electric  fire-alarm  system  of  uumero,us  boxes  ^^'here  the  transmis- 
sion of  an  alarm  is  entirely  automatic  after  the  manual  operation  at  the 
various  box  locations. 

A  "  general  alarm  "  is  essential  to  summon  the  fire  brigade  from  their  work 
or  homes,  and  when  it  can  be  arranged,  a  steam  whistle  signal  is  preferable ;  the 
general  alarm  to  be  followed  by  a  location  alarm,  represented  by  a  specified 
number  of  blasts  on  whistle  designating  the  various  districts  of  the  property 
so  that  the  brigades  may  proceed  to  the  location  soimded. 

If  an  electric  fire-alarm  system  is  justified,  the  proper  number  of  fire  alnrni 
boxes  should  be  distributed  to  adequately  cover  and  be  easily  accessible  from 
all  parts  of  the  property,  and  should  preferably  be  located  outside  of  buildings 
where  they  can  be  readily  reached.  These  boxes  should  be  on  a  system  center- 
ing in  the  main  power  plant,  from  which  point  the  general  whistle  alarm  is  to 
be  sounded.  It  may  be  necessary  in  some  properties  to  have  gongs  and  indi- 
cators installed  on  the  circuit  in  the  various  buildings  in  which  the  members  of 
the  brigade  are  employed,  in  addition  to  the  indicator  and  gong  iu  the  power 


FIEE   PEOTECTIOlSr    FOR  EAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  55 

hoiise,  as  tlie  noise  of  tlie  shop  operation  might  prevent  the  wiiistle  or  other 
ahirin  from  being  distinetly  lieard. 

Eiectric  flre-ahirm  systems  shouhl  be  tested  daily  from  alternate  boxes. 

The  question  of  a  fire-alarm  system  depends  so  much  on  the  extent  and  char- 
acter of  the  property,  that  no  detailed  recommendations  can  be  given. 

If  a  property  is  located  so  as  to  be.  withhi  the  call  limits  of  the  public  •fire 
deportment,  a  fire-alarm  signal  box  connected  with  the  city  or  town  fire-alarm 
service  should  be  installed  on  the  property.  In  instances  where  the  property  is 
extensive,  several  boxes  are  necessary,  or  auxiliary  boxes  connected  with  the 
main  box.  In  smaller  properties,  an  auxiliary  box  connected  with  tlie  nearest 
public  fire-alarm  box  is  recommended,  or  if  not  possible,  a  key  to  the  nearest 
puljlic  box  obtained  and  its  location  carefully  designated,  together  with  that  of 
the  box.  In  event  of  fire  the  public  department  should  be  immediately  sum- 
mrmed. 


FIGHTING  FIRE. 

Alnnn. — When  a  fire  Is  discovered  act  quickly  and  keep  cool.  Pails  of  water 
or  chemical  extinguishers  should  be  used  immediately  if  available  and  the  fire 
can  he  reached  with  them.  The  fire  alarm  should  he  turned  in  as  qiiicldij  us 
poftsihle. 

If  the  fire  is  beyond  the  fire  pail  or  chemical  fire  extinguisher  stage  get 
water  on  from  the  hose  as  quickly  as  possible  and  carry  the  play  pipe  as 
close  up  to  the  fire  as  the  heat  will  allow.  A  "  solid  .stream  "  will  "  knock  out  " 
a  fire,  while  a  "  spray  "  is  practically  useless.  Play  the  stream  at  the  base  of 
flames,  so  as  to  drench  the  material  actually  on  fire. 

Fire  brigade  should  remember  that  one  good  sti-eam  is  more  effective  than 
two  poor  ones,  so  don't  put  on  too  many  streams  and  thereby  reduce  your  water 
pressurp. 

Detail  responsible  men  to  watch  flying  sparks  and  embers  and  to  extinguish 
small  fires  caused  by  them. 

As  .'joou  as  practical»le  notify  persons  in  charge  of  property  of  tlie  tire. 

When  you  realize  that  a  building,  which  is  on  fire,  can  not  be  saved,  im- 
mediately devote  your  best  efforts  to  preventing  the  spread  of  the  fire  to  adjoin- 
ing buildings. 

If  any  of  the  buildings  on  fire  are  equi|)ped  with  standpipes  or  automatic 
sprinklers,  give  special  attention  to  the  water  supply,  and  when  a  building  has 
collapsed,  or  the  fire  is  absolutely  beyond  control,  see  that  the  sprinkler  .sup- 
jilics  jMid  vertical  pir>e  sui)plios  have  their  connecting  valves  closed,  so  (hat  llic 
lir(>  mains  will  not  be  drain<'d  l»y  broken  i)ipln.!,'  inside  the  building. 

Use  water  freely  to  check  a  fire.  Once  the  fire  is  under  control,  however,  use 
water  as  sparingly  as  po.ssible.  so  as  to  mlnlmlzo  water  damage  to  stock.  This 
is  especially  important  if  the  water  sujtply  Is  limited. 

After  a  fire. — As  soon  as  the  fire  is  "out"  use  every  elTort  to.  save  the 
materials  and  stock  and  safeguard  machinery.  Put  on  a  special  watchman.  If 
necesi^ary;  to  safeguard  the  property. 

RemcMnber  that  all  fires  have  a  vel'y  small  beginning,  and  cmu  be  extinguished 
if  you  act  quickly;  therefore  keep  yctur  flre  apparatus  ready  for  Instiint  use 
and  drill  your  flre  brigades  regidarly  and  thoroughly.  Have  yrair  men  well 
inf;)rnKHl  as  to  locntion  of  all  valves  and  other  niipuratu.s.  Drills  should  be 
hail  every  two  weeks  by  day  and  night  fire  brigades. 


66  FIKE   PROTECTION   rOR~  EAILROAD-  PROPERTIES. 

SUGGESTIONS  FOR  THE  PURCHASE,  USE,  AND  CARE  OF  FIRE  HOSE. 

Fire  hose  is  one  of  the  most  important  of  fire-extinguishing  agencies,  and,  as 
witli  all  fire-extinguishing  apparatus,  to  be  reliable  should  be  of  the  best  mate- 
rial and  workmanship.  It  should  always  be  in  perfect  working  order  and  at 
nil  times  properly  cared  for. 

I'urchasers  are  advised  that  specifications  have  been  prepared  for  the  manu- 
facture of  fire  hose  for  "  fire-department  use,"  having  been  adopted  by  the 
National  Fire  Protection  Association  and  National  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters 
after  conference  with  hose  manufacturers.  Such  specifications  cover  the  manu- 
facture of  the  cotton  fabric,  rubber  lining,  couplings,  size,  weight  and  flexibility, 
strength,  etc. 

Such  specifications  are  known  as  the  "  National  Standard  "  and  are  furnished 
hose  manufacturers,  and  purchasers  are  therefore  advised  when  buying  hose 
to  i-equire  that  a  guaranty  be  given  by  the  manufacturer  that  the  hose  sold  is 
made  to  at  least  meet  such  requirements  and  that  any  hose  not  meeting  same 
after  service  and  tests  may  be  returned  at  the  manufacturer's  expense  and  is 
to  be  replaced.  The  above  is  mentioned  as  a  caution  against  buying  any 
inferior  grades. 

Each  brand  of  hose  should  be  conspicuously  and  distinctly  marked  with  the 
name  of  the  manufacturer,  the  trade  name  of  the  hose,  together  with  the  date 
of  manufacture,  stenciled  upon  every  piece  of  hose,  twice  in  each  length.  It 
would  be  well  also  for  each  corporation  or  plant  to  stencil  its  name  on  the  hose, 
so  that  the  ownership  may  be  known. 

Fire  hose  is  subjected  to  a  severe  class  of  service,  the  importance  of  which 
makes  it  essential  that  the  utmost  care  be  given  to  the  quality  of  the  materials 
and  the  character  of  the  workmanship  employed  in  its  manufacture. 

By  purchasing  only  the  best  hose  and  giving  it  the  small  amount  of  attention 
suggested,  the  greatest  practicable  durability  will  be  assured. 

Experience  has  shown  that  a  good  cotton  rubber-lined  hose,  properly  cared  for, 
will  frequently  last  10  or  15  years. 

A  cheap  grade  of  fire  hose  is  by  far  the  most  costly  purchase.  Do  not  pur- 
chase inferior  grades  of  hose  on  the  grounds  of  cheapness.  Hose  is  always 
made  to  fit  the  price  paid  for  it.  The  best  quality  and  consequently  more  ex- 
pensive hose  is  usually  cheaper  in  the  end,  on  account  of  greater  durability  of 
the  better  grade  of  rul)ber  compounds  used  in  its  manufacture. 

Kinds  of  Hose  fok  Fiee  Service. 

cotton  eubbek-lined  hose. 

For  use  on  the  yard  hydrants  of  shops,  mills,  terminals,  or  other  property  and 
for  the  interior  of  large  stations,  warehouses,  piers,  shops,  etc.,  a  single  "  jack- 
eted "  or  "  ply  "  cotton  rubber-lined  hose  is  suitable  for  ordinary  pressures  and 
i-ecoinmended.  For  many  yards  and  buildings  it  is  preferable  to  the  thicker 
.•ind  heavier  jacketed  hose,  as  it  is  easier  to  handle  and  more  quickly  dried  and 
more  economical  for  the  customer. 

For  yards  or  buildings  where  hose  Mould  receive  rough  handling  or  be  lial)le 
(<t  heavier  wear  and  pressures,  the  same  quality  of  hose  is  recommended  with 
jMlditional  jackets,  separate  or  interwoven,  composed  of  the  same  kind  of  cotton 
f;d)ric. 

The  light  grades  of  fire  hose  on  the  market,  generally  known  as  "  mill  hose," 
are  too  light  and  generally  of  too  low  grade  for  the  best  service  in  shops,  ter- 
minals, and  manufacturing  establi'shments  and  are  not  recommended. 


FIKE   PROTECTION   FOE   ILilLEOAD   PKOPEKTIES.  57 

For  use  on  yard  hydrants,  no  hose  smaller  in  inside  dian>eter  tlian  2J  inches 
should  be  used. 

The  loss  of  pressure  is  three  times  as  great  in  2-inc'h  hose  as  iu  2L.-in('h  hose, 
and,  although  whore  a  line  of  only  50  feet  is  used  the  effect  of  friction  is  not 
much,  for  longer  lines  it  is  a  serious  detriment. 

TJNLINED    LINEX    HOSJ:. 

For  tire  hose  to  hang  up  in  exceptionally  dry,  warm  rooms,  corridors  of  office 
buildings,  hotels,  etc.,  uulined  linen  hose  is  suitable  and  recommended.  Specifi- 
cations are  also  prepared  for  its  manufacture,  and  purchasers  should  be  assured 
that  hose  of  this  class  meets  the  requirements  of  the  "National  Standard." 

Its  chief  value  is  for  short  lines  for  brief  use  inside  some  class  of  buildings 
and  is  best  on  account  of  its  lightness,  compactness,  and  convenience  for  use  by 
one  man  alone. 

T\to  and  one-half  inch  hose  is  the  standard  size  used  for  attachment  to 
standpipes  inside  buildings,  depending  upon  the  water  supply,  although  1\  inch 
and  I2  inch  are  lighter  and  more  easily  handled,  and  may  be  used. 

Durability  depends  upon  the  preliminary  preparation  and  spinning  of  the 
fabric;  and  hose  manufactured  in  accordance  with  the  special  specifications  for 
this  class  of  hose  is  therefore  necessary,  that  it  may  hold  water  and  stand  a 
higli  pressure. 

Linen  hos-e  is  injured  every  time  it  is  wet,  but  if  kept  in  a  dry  place,  may 
continue  a  reliable  safeguard  for  20  years  or  more.  It  is  not  suitable  for  lines 
of  more  than  50  or  100  feet  in  length,  because  of  the  loss  of  pressure  due  to  fric- 
tion caused  by  its  interior  roughness;  and  it  is  not  suitable  for  outside  use, 
because  holes  quickly  chafe  through  it  under  pulsations  of  pump  or  when  laid 
over  sharp  stones,  cinders,  luaterial,  or  around  sharp  corners. 

It  will  be  seen  that  only  xinder  exceptional  conditions  is  linen  hose  recom- 
mended, on  account  of  inability  to  tost  it  or  the  water  facilities,  where  used. 
(See  Care  of.) 

CAKE  OF  COTTON  KUBBEU-LINED  HOSE. 

Owners  of  hose  and  those  responsilde  for  its  care  are  cautioned  and  urged — 

To  run  water  through  it  occasionally  (at  least  four  times  a  year),  as  it  keeps 
the  rubber  in  good  condition  and  lengthens  its  life;  but  to  drain  the  hose  and 
allnw  the  cotton  fabric  to  become  thoroughly  dry  before  stowing  away  again. 

To  test  it  about  once  a  year  to  about  150  iMiiinds  pressure  to  make  stn'c  it  is  in 
good  condition. 

If  put  on  a  cart  and  allowed  to  remain  afler  use,  wet  hose  is  liable  to  become 
damaged  quickly.  For  this  reason  it  .should  bo  removed  from  the  cart  as  soon 
as  It  Is  returned  to  the  hose  house,  and  dry  hose  substituted.  In  making  this 
change,  the  requisite  numl)er  of  lengths  of  dry  ho.se  should  be  gotten  ready,  the 
cfiuitlings  and  washers  examined,  and  the  threads  treated  with  a  liltle  (allow 
or  mineral  oil.  The  wet  ho.se  .should  be  unreeled  in  sections  and  the  dry  hose 
iccled  on.  The  wet  hose  sliouhl  be  hung  up  in  a  tower  or  laid  on  racks  to  dry. 
ir  Ihe  hose  Is  dirty,  It  should  lie  brushed  olT  with  a  broom  after  drying. 

If  a  drying  lower  is  not  prafllcable,  a  slanting  ventilated  hose  drying  nn  k 
is  reronimemled  as  a  simple  and  cITt'clive  arrangement,  to  bo  used  for  drying 
hose  after  it  has  been  wi't,  either  at  a  fire  <ir  at  a  test.  Tlie  rack  should  bo 
52  feet  l(»iig,  4  feet  whie  or  more,  1  ff)ot  high  at  the  lower  ond  and  at  least  3 
feet  high  at  the  upper  end,  and  wPh  slait<'d  top;  and  may  W  built  in  .sections  to 
facilitate  moving. 


58  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

The  rack  facilitates  the  proper  care  of  the  hose,  which  will  tend  to  prolong 
its  life  and  thus  reduce  the  cost  of  a  perishable  part  of  the  equipment. 

Keep  the  hose  valves  tight  so  that  hose  will  not  be  wet  by  leakage. 

Where  cotton  rubber-lined  hose  is  attached  to  standpipes  on  the  interior  of 
large  stations,  warehouses,  piers,  shops,  etc.,  in  order  to  prevent  leakage  entering 
hose  at  hose  connections,  place  a  one-fourth  inch  drip  cock  in  body  of  valve  or  a 
fitting  with  drip  cock  as  near  valve  as  possible,  leaving  it  open  to  drain  away 
leakage. 

To  avoid  keeping  hose  in  warm  rooms,  but  preferably  in  a  small,  well  venti- 
lated hose  house.  --~~ 

To  roll  up  or  stretch  out  all  stock  hose,  as  far  as  possible,  to  prevent  sharp 
bends  or  kinks  in  it  which  may  injure  both  fabric  and  lining. 

CARE    OF    UNLINED    LINEN     HOSE. 

Cautions. 

Never  wet  unlined  linen  hose  except  to  use  at  a  fire. 

Keep  the  hose  valves  tight  so  that  it  will  not  be  wet  by  leakage.  This  is  the 
most  common  cause  of  injury  to  hose  of  this.kind^  Use  a  well-made  brass- 
bodied  gate  valve. 

To  prevent  leakage  entering  hose  at  hose  connections,  place  a  one-fonrth-inch 
drip  cock  in  body  of  valve  or  a  fitting  with  drip  cock  as  near  valve  as  possible, 
leaving  it  open  to  drain  away  leakage. 

Stretch  the  hose  out  from  time  to  time,  that  it  may  be  dried  between  the  lay- 
ers. Racks  for  linen  hose  should  allow  it  to  hang  vertically,  as  this  gives  better 
ventilation  than  if  folds  are  laid  horizontally. 

MISCELLANEOUS    SUGGESTIONS. 

The  nece.ssity  for  uniformity  in  the  size  and  screw  threads  of  hose  couplings 
throughout  the  country  has  often  been  strongly  emphasized,  as  is  the  case  when 

-'one  neighborhood  is  likely  to  call  upon  another,  in  event  of  a  serious  fire.  A 
"  National  Standard  "  for  size  and  thread  of  hose  couplings  and  hydrant  fittings 

*has  been  considered  and  has  been  adopted  by  many  associations  of  National  in- 
fluence in  matters  regarding  fire  protection  and  extinguishment.  Particular  at- 
tention is  called  in  this  dii-ection  to  owners  or  operators  of  shops  and  other  large 
{woperties  to  see  that  their  fire  hose  and  fire  hydrant  couplings  conform  to  tlie 
National  Standard  threads  wherever  possible  (2 J  by  St's  inches,  seven  and  onc'- 
half, threads  to  the  inch),  but  that  they  are  uniform  with  those  of  the  nearest 
municipality,  so  that  when  the  city  fire  department  is  called  upon,  the  hose  con- 
nections may  be  of  service.  Where  couplings  are  not  uniform,  adapters  should 
be  provided. 

Nothing  increases  the  efiiciency  of  a  private  fire  department  more  than  tlie 
ability  to  quickly  put  a  stream  of  water  upon  a  fire.  Hose  should  therefore 
preferably  be  kept  in  a  small  house  and  attached  to  each  hydrant  ready  for 
instant  use,  as  the  delay  caused  by  bringing  hose  and  appliances  from  dislahi 
parts  of  the  shop,  yard,  or  premises  often  results  in  a  serious  fire. 

Fire-brigade  hose,  play  pipes,  etc.,  for  use  on  yard  hydrants,  should  not  lu' 
kept  inside  of  the  main  building,  for,  should  a  fire  occur,  access  to  them  might 
l)e  impossible;  moreover,  rubber-lined  hose  deteriorates  more  rapidly  in  heated, 
close  rooms  than  when  kept  on  slatted  shelves  in  an  outside,  well-ventilated 
hose  house. 


FIfiE   PKOrECTION   FOE   RAILKOAD  PEOPEETIES.  59 

If  it  is  not  found  exiiedient  or  tlie  cliaiacter  of  the  property  forbids  tlie 
locutiou  of  a  hose  house  at  each  hydrant,  or  it  is  otherwise  more  desirable,  hose 
htuises  are  recoui mended  in  which  to  keep  the  fire  hose  on  carts. 

^ich  house  should  be  sub.^tantially  built,  and  centrally  located.  It  should 
be  large  enough  to  contain  hose  carts  and  possibly  either  a  steam  or  chemical 
en.u'ine  and  ladder  truck,  as  the  conditions  may  require,  with  storage  space  for 
su))plies.  In  some  cases  it  would  Ije  well  to  provide  sleeping  quarters  in  the 
hose  ho,use  for  the  men  of  the  fire  brigades,  as  there  would  thereby  be  a  saving 
in  time  in  getting  quick  response  to  a  fire  at  night. 

The  doors  should  open  outAvnrd  and  provide  ample  exit  space  for  all  appa- 
ratus. 

Hose  carts  should  be  strong,  light,  and  simple  in  construction,  with  a  carry- 
ing capacity  of  300  to  500  feet  of  hose,  and  equipment  of  play  pipes,  plug 
wrenches,  hose  spanners,  etc. 


FIRE  HYDRANTS. 

A  fire  hydrant  «hich  offeiB  the  least  amount  of  resistance  to  the  fl<»w  of 
w.iter  through  it  should  be  useil.  Hydrants  should  have  at  least  two  hose  con- 
nections and  be  designed  so  as  to  overcome  the  danger  of  freezing  by  automiUic 
drninyge  upon  dosing  the  hydrant  >"alve;  and  silso  to  at  least  meet  the  retpiire- 
ments  of  "  standard  specifications,"  as  to  materials,  parts,  smd  workmanship. 

In  placing  hydrants  they  should  be  so  located  as  to  allow  of  the  concentra- 
tion at  any  point  of  two  or  more  stre.ims  from  lines  of  hose  not  more  than  250 
feet  in  length.  The  fewer  the  number  of  hydrants,  the  more  hose  \\ill  be  nec&s- 
sary.  Hydrants  and  pipe  are  more  economicai  than  hose  and  more  durable  and 
eflicient.  A  long  line  of  hose  is  more  difficult  to  handle  than  a  short  one.  more 
time  is  consumed  in  laying  it.  and  the. loss  of  pressure  from  friction  is  greatly 
increased. 

Hydrants  should  be  placed  far  enough  from  l)uildings  lo  escape  being  in.jun^d 
by  falling  walls.  They  should  l>e  frequently  inspecte«l  and  tested,  exceiit  in 
freezing  weather,  and  their  couiilings  slumld  be  occasionally  treated  with  a 
little  mineral  oil. 

Hydrants  in  new  InstallationH  s!u)uld  confonii  in  all  particulars  to  standard, 
witii  two  or  more  2*-inch  outlets  (fitted  Mith  independent  hose  gates). 

r'lire  shouhl  be  talcen  that  threads  on  lioso  outlets  correspond  exnctly  to  the 

cads  on  the  public  fir(>  depnrtnicnt  hose. 

Ill  installing  new  hydrants  care  should  be  tnken  (bat  they  are  fastened  ti>  the 

ling  in  a  secure  manner,  liy  menus  of  <'l;imi)S  niliuhed  to  lugs  cast  on  hydrant 
body.  Ea«'li  hytlnuit  should  hf  set  <)n  Hat  stone  and  gravel,  and  broken  ninte- 
ri;il  jilaced  under  arirl  around  (o  give  projier  dralnnge. 

ill)   Observe  if  any  hydrants  are  leaking,  ami  if  so  require  lmm«MliM(e  repairs. 

<h)   See  that  hydrant  stems  nnd  cnpH  are  well  lul)rhiited. 

(f}  See  that  the  arrow  (Indicating  pro|H'r  direction  to  turn  hydrant  opj'u) 

II. t  olilitcnited.  If  it  is,  requH-e  n  new  arrow  to  be  pnlnte<l  on. 

((/)   All  hyilrants  should  he  flushed  out  thoroughly  at  least  ypinly. 

(f)   To  tei^t  hydrjints  proi)erly  attiu-h  giiuge  lo  s|)e<'lal   testing  outlcl    (or   if 

-re  is  no  gauge  outlet,  gauge  plug  rnu  be  inserted  in  a  nozzb*.  and  the  giiuge 
attiiched  to  one  outlet)  aiul  obtain  static  pressure  by  o|M'ning  hyilrant,  then 
Howing  pressure  by  opening  one  or  nmre  outlets, 

(/)  Do  not  test  bydmnts  in  eold  wciitlier  by  opening  tliem.  There  is  too 
uuich  liability  of  their  drniniriL'  iiimroi"!  Iv.  :ind  c<jnse<|ueut  danger  that  they 


GO  FIKE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

■will  freeze  after  the  test.  If  there  is  reason  to  suspect  that  hydrants  are  not 
draining  properly,  test  by  "  sounding  "  with  the  Iiaud  on  an  open  outlet.  A  mild 
turn  of  stem  will  furnish  any  evidence  of  frozen  conditions. 

Another  means  of  testing  is  to  lower  a  weight  into  hydrant.  The  presence 
of  ice  can  be  determined  by  the  sound,  and  water  by  the  wetting  of  the 
weight. 


SPECIFICATIONS   FOR  THE  CONSTRUCTION   AND   EQUIPMENT   OF 
FIRE-HOSE  HOUSES. 

Tlie  standard  hose  house  specified  herein  provides  an  accessible  place  where 
the  hose  and  small  equipment  necessary  for  yard  protection  may  be  assembled 
at  hydrant  and  kept  in  good  condition  and  ready  for  instant  use.  This 
house  follows  the  "  National  Standard." 

Construction. 

Location. — Houses  should  be  located  so  that  two  or  three  way  hydrants  may 
be  as  close  to  the  front  of  the  house  as  possible  and  still  allow  sufficient 
room  back  of  the  doors  for  the  hose  gates  and.,  attached  hose. 

Foundations. — To  consist  of  a  brick  pier  or  wooden  post  at  each  corner,  8  to 
12  inches  square  and  8  inches  high  above  the  ground. 

Note. — The  depth  of  foundations  should  be  sufficient  to  prevent  serious  disphicement 
by  frost. 

Material.— To  be  of  good  lumber,  free  fi-om  injurious  knots,  and  seasoned 
to  prevent  serious  warping.  Sheathing,  roof,  doors,  and  shelving  to  be  of 
i-iuch  matched  stuff,  dressed  on  one  side. 

Frame. — To  be  made  of  3  by  4  and  2  by  4  inch  material. 

Roof. — To  be  made  water-tight  by  tinning  or  its  equivalent  and  to  be 
properly  inclined  for  drainage. 

Doors. — To  be  in  pairs,  to  open  the  full  width  of  the  front,  to  be  hung  on 
heavy  T  hinges  bolted  on  and  to  swing  1  foot  clear  of  the  ground. 

To  be  provided  with  substantial  battens  at  top  and  bottom  and  a  suitable 
diagonal  cross  brace  well  nailed  on. 

Note. — Care  should  be  taken  to  select  well-seasoned  stuff  iu  order  to  prevent  warping. 
Extra  wide  battens  and  cross  braces  should  also  be  used. 

Hose  shelves.— To  be  made  of  3-inch  slats,  spaced  A  inch  apart. 

Note. — The  object  of  the  slats  is  to  permit  the  circulation  of  air  around  the  hose.  The 
spacing  named  should  not  be  exceeded,  as  the  hose  is  liable  to  catch  in  wider  openings. 

Two  shelves  supported  on  the  horizontal  framing  and  extending  across  the 
house  to  be  provided. 

Note.— The  lower  shelf  is  designed  to  hold  100  feet  ol  hose  attached  to  the  hydrant. 
The  upper  shelf  is  designed  to  hold  the  spare  hose. 

Floors.— To  be  constructed  of  i-inch  lumber  not  exceeding  4  inches  wide  and 
laid  open.  Flooring  to  be  cut  away  around  hydrant  so  as  not  to  interfere 
with  the  swing  of  spanner  at  any  outlet. 

Ventilation. — An  opening  permitting  the  free  circulation  of  air  to  be  pro- 
vided under  the  eaves.    This  opening  to  be  prgtected  by  a  strip. 

HARDWAKE. 

Hinges.— To  be  extra  heavy  wrought  T  pattern,  16  inches  long,  to  be  se- 
curely bolted  through  the  doors  and  framing  of  the  house  by  §-inch  machine 
bolts. 

Note. — The  hinges  should  be  installed  so  as  to  allow  the  doors  to  swing  back  against 
the  sides  of  the  house.     The  bolts  should  bo  provided  with  washers  next  to  the  woodwork. 


FIRE  PROTECTIOX   FOR  RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  61 

LatcJt. — Doors  on  houses  to  be  provided  with  a  latch  made  of  2  by  ^  inch 
iron  at  least  24  inches  long.  Latch  to  be  loosely  bolted  to  one  door  near  the 
center,  to  be  provided  with  a  handle  and  arranged  so  as  to  drop  into  a  catch 
on  tlie  opposite  door.  Catch  to  be  made  of  2  by  i  inch  iron  bolted  through  the 
door  by  at  least  two  bolts. 

Note. — The  latch  does  away  with  the  necessity  of  an  upright  post  in  the  center  of  the 
doorway  and  provides  for  fastening  two  large  doors  without  bolting  one  on  the  inside. 

Locks. — Ordinarily  hose  hou.ses  should  not  be  locked,  but  where  it  is  necessary 
to  guard  against  theft,  they  may  be  fastened  with  a  brittle  lock  or  hasp  having 
a  substantial  appearance,  but  which  can  be  easily  broken  in  case  of  necessity. 

7^00/-  fastening. — A  light  bar  of  round  iron,  pointed  and  hung  to  bottom  of 
door,  to  be  provided  for  holding  each  door  open. 


House  to  be  thoroughly  painted  on  the  outside  with  two  good  coats  and  con- 
spicuously stenciled  "  Fire  Hose." 

EQUIPMENT. 

IIoKc. — One  hundred  feet  of  21-inch  cotton  rubber-lined  hose  to  be  coupled  and 
attached  to  hydrant  and  laid  in  laps  on  lower  shelf.  This  hose  to  have  standard 
play  pipe  attached.  ■ 

At  least  two  lengths,  50  feet  each,  of  extra  hose  to  be  stored  in  separate  coils 
on  upper  shelf,  with  female  coupling  outside. 

Couplings. — To  be  interchangeable  with  the  public  service. 

J'lay  pipes. — To  be  Standard  pattern. 

Note. — The  National  Standard  play  pipe  has  swivel  handles,  a  perfectly  smooth  taper- 
ing tube  30  inches  long  and  is  wound  and  paJnted.     It  has  a.  IJ-iuch  smooth  bore  nozzle. 

Mi-HccUaneous. — Each  house  to  be  supplied  with  two  axes,  two  bars,  one  extra 
Iilay  pipe,  two  ladder  straps,  four  spauners,  one  extra  hydrant  wrench,  one 
lantern  and  a  coil  of  one-half  inch  rope,~lwo  and  one-half  times  the  height  of 
highest  building.  A  supply  of  rul)ber  hose  washers  should  be  hung  conspicu- 
ously. 

Hydrant  wrench  to  be  always  on  Iiydrnnt. 


INSTALLATION  OF  FIRE  PAILS  AND  WATER  BARRELS. 

In  rAssENGKH  .xND  Freioiit  St.vtions,  W.\nEHousEs,  Piers,  Shops,  Oitres  and 
Other  Miscellaneov-s  R.ui.noAD  Properties. 

The  value  of  lire  palls  as  a  protection  against  the  spread  of  lire  is  recognized 
very  generally  by  (liose  who  Iiave  the  care  of  property  under  their  cluirge;  this 
is  pointed  out  in  regularly  prepared  statistics  showing  their  serviceahleness 
wlierc  lnstall(<ifl  and  kept  in  proper  couflition  for  use  when  needed. 

The  first  few  minutis  after  the  start  of  a  fire  usually  determine  its  extent ; 
it  Is  tlierefore  fjuite  essential,  e.'sperlally  Iti  tlie  al»ove  classes  of  property,  that 
tliis  simple  means  be  provided,  at  least,  for  the  exlinguishmont  of  fires  in  (lieir 
in'ipiency.  Fire  palls  and  water  barrels  are  useful  only  when  (hey  are  filled, 
within  easy  reach,  and  near  at  hand;  and  in  order  to  provide  some  gunriuitee 
of  cniflency,  and  that  a  tniifnnn  method  may  be  used,  the  following  spfclflca- 
lions  are  pn'sonted  for  tln-ir  insijiil.'ition  : 

1.   WMKKK  ueco.m.mem)i:i>. 

In  passenger,  fn-lght,  ami  combined  passenger  ami  fn-iglit  stations,  ware- 
houses, piers,  wharves,  shojts,  ofiices,  coal  tipples,  and  such  other  misc-ellaneous 


62  FIEE  PROTECTION    FOE   EAIUIOAD  PROPERTIES. 

property  where  the  ooQupancy  or  operation  produces  or  invites  hazards  and 
where  the  value  would  warrant  the  installation  of  some  immediate  means  of 
extinguishment  in  case  of  ftre. 

2.    NUMBEK   EECOMMENDED.  ^ 

In  passenger  stations,  three  pails  for  ordinary  size  buildings,  increasing  the 
number  by  one  pail  for  about  each  500  square  feet  of  floor  space  over  the  first 
2,000  square  feet. 

In  freight  stations  at  least  one  barrel  and  two  pails  for  ordinary  size;  in- 
creasing the  number  in  larger  buildings  by  one  barrel  and  two  pails  for  each 
additional  3,000  square  feet  of  floor  space  over  the  first  3,000  square  feet,' so  as 
to  make  them  readily  accessible  to  all  parts. 

In  combined  passenger  and  freight  stations,  one  barrel  and  two  fire  pails  to 
be  placed  in  freight  room,  increasing  the  number  in  larger  buildings  as  Indi- 
cated for  freight  stations. 

In  shop  buildings,  one  barrel  and  two  pails  to  be  distributed  for  about  each 
3,000  square  feet  of  floor  space. 

In  warehouses,  two  pails  for  a  floor  space  of  1,000  square  feet  or  less,  in- 
creasing the  number  by  an  additional  pail  for  each  additional  500  square  feet. 

In  other  and  miscellaneous  property  as  conditions  may  require  and  permit. 

3.  PAILS  REQUIRED. 

To  be  of  galvanized  iron. 

Capacity,  12  quarts. 

To  be  painted  red. 

To  be  lettered  "  FIRE  " ;  letters  to  be  black,  not  less  than  2*  inches  high. 

Hound  or  conical  bottoms  recommended,  as  otherwise  employees  are  likely 
to  use  pails  for  ordinaiT  purposes.  Covers  not  required,  but  recommended  so 
that  dust  and  dirt  may  be  kept  out  and  water  kept  cleaner. 

Wooden  pails  not  recommended. 

NOTH. — The  use  of  an  iron  pail  in  preference  to  a  pail  of  wood  or  other  material  is  a 
matter  of  service  and  economy,  in  addition  to  the  greater  likelihood  that  an  iron  pail 
will  be  found  serviceable  when  suddenly  wanted  for  use. 

It  has  been  found  advisable  to  require  that  pails  be  painted  red,  with  the  word  "FIRE" 
In  black  letters  of  a  prominent  size.  The  red  color  is  useful  because  of  its  general  asso- 
ciation with  tire  ;  it  helps  to  make  the  pail  clearly  visible  when  wanted  ;  and,  with  the 
•word  "  FIRE,"  it  is  a  constant  reminder  that  the  pail  is  there  for  a  special  purpose,  the 
putting  out  of  Are,  and  is  not  to  be  taken  away  or  used  for  ordinary  purposes. 

4.  BARRELS    REQUIRED. 

To  be  a  good  oak  barrel,  capacity  to  be  not  less  than  50  gallons.  To  be  paint.ed 
red,  with  word  "  FIRE  "  stencilled  thereon  in  black  letters  not  less  than  six 
inches  high. 

To  have  a  cover  with  a  handle. 

5.  SETTING    FOB   PAILS. 

To  be  fixed,  permanent  and  reserved  for  fire  pails.  Shelves  or  brackets  are 
the  approved  setting,  but  they  must  be  intended  for,  and  limited  in  their  use  to, 
fire  pails. 

Fire  pails  should  not  be  placed  on  the  floor,  window  sills,  safes,  desks,  radia- 
tors, boxes,  on  or  under  work  tables  or  benches,  on  top  of  one  another  or  in  tiers. 

To  be  not  lower  than  2  feet  above  the  floor,  measured  from  the  floor  to  the 
bottom  of  the  pail. 


FIRE   PROTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  63 

To  be  not  higher  than  5  feet  above  the  floor,  measured  from  the  floor  to  tho 
top  of  the  pail. 

Vv'lien  round-bottomecl  pails  are  used  and  set  in  shelves,  the  holes  cut  for  the 
ov:\l  bottom  should  be  only  large  enough  to  receive  the  oval,  that  is,  the  flnngo 
oi  the  bottom  should  rest  on  the  wood  and  not  be  set  into  the  opening! 

NdTE.- — Tlie  placing  at  a  medium  height  is  devised  to  permit  of  grasping  the  pun   una- 

I  vA  s;iining  half  its  contents;  if  a  pail  is  placed  more  than  5  feet  high,  it  is  liltely  to  be 

!ir  of  the  reach  of  the  average  person  ;  and  if  set  lower  than  2  feet,  it  is  likely  to  be 

.  .-rlooked  or  to  be  knocked  from  its  position.  — 

\  permanent  setting,  such  as  hooks  or  shelves,  is  intended  to  make  sure  that  the  pail 

win  be  given  a  fixed  position,  which  will  become  familiar  to  the  occiipanis  who,  in  time 

of  excitement,  can  rely  on  finding  pails  in  a  definite  spot 

6.    DISTKIBUTION   OF  PAILS. 

To  provide  pails  near  at  hand  in  every  part  of  the  premises ;  on  eacli  floor 
and  in  basements. 

To  provide  extra  pails  near  dangerous  features. 

In  groups  of  2,  3,  4,  5,  or  6,  but  not  larger  than  6. 

An  equipment  ■©f  12  pails  or  less  on  a  floor,  to  be  divided  into  groups  of  2  or  3. 

An  etiuipment  of  24  pails  or  less  on  a  floor,  to  be  divided  into  groups  of  2.  3, 
or  4. 

An  equipment  of  more  than  24  pails  on  a  floor,  to  be  divided  in  groups. of  not 
more  than  6.  , 

Groups  to  be  placed  diagonally  opposite,  i.  e.,  "  staggered." 

7.    LOCATION. 

In  a  clear  space,  providing  free  and  unimpeded  access. 
In  close  proximity  to  exits,  such  as  stairwaySj,  elevators,  doorways,  etc. 
In  a  familiar  place,  within  con.stant  sight  of  the  occupants. 
Not  to  be  blocked  by  merchandise  or  machinery,  or  covered  with  rubbish  or 
oilier  niatiTials. 

8.    FITXING. 

TlV/7er  pdilH. — To  be  kept  filled  regiilarly  with  clean  water. 

Nnnd  pails. — Where  oils,  paints  or  inllanunable  liquids  are  kept,  used  or 
stored,  one-half  of  the  total  number  of  pails  required,  to  be  kept  filled  witli 
clean  dry  sand,  and  a  scoop  to  be  provided  for  use  in  throwing  the  sand.  Sand 
ynjils  Hhould  not  be  filled  <"  f'lii  wn  (o  make  them  inconveniently  heavy;  t^^  ■ 
liiirds  full  is  .sufliclout. 

NoTK. — Rt'cnlnr  refilling  is  a  pricaiition  rorominended  to  make  sure  that  the  paiis  sli.ill 
lontnin  water. 

.S'«*i(Z.— Wafer  .should  not  be  used  on  binning  Ufjuids,  Kuch  as  oils,  etc.,  as  It  may 
'.'it:  extinguish  the  fire  but  float  the  burning  liquids  to  u  distance,  and  thereby  spread  Ihe 
:  ic.  Some  material  such  as  sjind  should  be  used,  first,  to  keep  the  burning  li(|ii!<l  'i  ■• 
preadlng  and  then  to  smother  the  fire. 

When  fire  bnrrel.s  and  pulls  are  located  where  there  is  a  Itability  of  the  w.hUt 
Id'iiig  frozen  in  cold  wealiier,  it  is  recommended  that  cliloride  of  calcium  or  salt 
i»e  placed  in  each  to  retard  freezing.  The  density  of  the  solution  rei^uired  will 
depend  upon  existing  tf-mpcral  ure.s.  Tlie-following  tables  have  been  Buggcsled 
ais  an  appropriate  mixture  fur  the  Holutiun: 


64 


FIRE   PROTECTION   TOR  RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 


Commercial  calcium  chloride. 

Common  salt  (sodium 

chloride). 

Pounds  per  gallon. 

Freezing  point 
(degrees  Fah- 
renheit). 

Pounds  per  gallon. 

.  Freezing  point 
(degrees  Fah- 
renheit). 

1                          

29  above  zero, 
27  above  zero. 
25  above  zero. 
23  above  zero. 
21  above  zero. 
IS  above  zero. 
14  above  zero. 
8  above  zero. 
Zero. 

6  below  zero. 
17  below  zero. 
27  below  zero. 
39  below  zero. 
54  below  zero. 

J 

24  above  zero. 

1                                   

1 

18  above  zero. 

1^ 

IJ 

15  above  zero. 

l>                              

l| 

12  above  zero. 

1-f 

If 

9  above  zero. 

2' :::::::::;:::::::::: 

2 

6  above  zero. 

2}                                          

2i 

3  above  zero. 

2^ 

1  above  zero. 

..- 

3       

3  below  zero. 

3 1.                                          

3J. 

8  below  zero. 

4"                                  

41 

5 

5i 

The  solution  should  preferably  be  mixed  in  a  vat  before  being  placed  in 
barrels,  care  being  exercised  to  see  that  the  salt  is  entirely  dissolved.  If 
dumped  into  a  barrel  and  covered  with  water,  or  if  thrown  into  a  barrel  of 
water,  the  salt  will  be  only  partially  dissolved  and  unsatisfactory  results  ob- 
tained. It  is  necessary  that  the  chloride  of  calcium  or  the  salt  be  dissolvtd  by 
thorough  stirring. 

Calcium  chloride ds  possibly  superior  to  salt  in  the  following  respects:  h  does 
not  readily  corrode  steel  tanks  and  barrel  hoops ;  it  has  no  odor  and  will  remain 
odorless  even  if  left  standing  for  a  long  time,  and  its  affinity  for  moistu^<e  pre- 
vents evaporation  of  the  watex*. 

Where  calcium  chloride  solution  is  used,  wooden  barrels  should  first  be  well 
coated  inside  with  asphaltum  or  with  a  mixture  of  crude  paraffin  and  resin  to 
prevent  slirinliing  of  staves  and  consequent  leakage. 

10.    CAEE. 

The  person  having  charge  of  tlie  property  should  be  held  responsible  for  the 
proper  maintenance  of  this  equipment,  that  it  be  kept  in  constant  condition  for 
immedia'te  service. 


CHEMICAL  FIRE  EXTINGUISHERS. 


If  a  chemical  fire  extinguisher  is  improperly  charged  or  kept  in  such  manner 
that  it  is  useless  as  a  fire-extinguishing  agent,  it  belies  its  name  and  becomes 
no  longer  a  "  fire  extinguisher,"  but  a  more  or  less  harmful  deception.  When 
upon  discovery  of  fire,  an  extinguisher  is  carried  to  the  fire  only  to  find  it  will 
not  operate  through  some  defect  in  charging,  much  valuable  time  has  been  lost, 
perhaps  allowing  fire  to  get  beyond  control  and  destroy  valuable  property  and 
equipment. 

Upon  inspection  many  chemical  fire  extinguishers  have  been  found  im- 
properly charged,  without  charges,  or  inaccessibly  located,  any  of  which  de- 
fects might  easily  have  been  eliminated  with  a  little  thought  or  care.  It  has 
been  found  that  acid  bottles  in  extinguishei's  have  been  filled  to  the  top  without 
regard  to  explicit  directions  to  put  in  only  4  ounces  of  sulphuric  acid.  The 
extinguisher  shell  has  been  found  filled  to  the  very  top  with  bicarbonate  of 
soda  solution  instead  of  only  within  3  inches  of  top;  also  the  bicarbonate 
of  soda  (powder)   should  hn  tliorouglily  stirred  to  insure  a  good  solution.     A 


FIB£  PBOTECTION   FOR    RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  66 

common  criticism  of  inspectors  has  been  the  placing  of  extinguishers  where 
they  are  not  accessible  or  liable  to  be  covered  up  or  Itnocked  over  and  acci- 
dentally discharged.  Locating  extinguishers  where  exposed  t<i  freezing  tem- 
periitures  in  winter  should  be  carefully  avoided.  Stoppels  have  been  found 
missing  from  acid  bottles.  In  some  oa.^es  hose  has  been  cut  or  worn  so  it  would 
not  .stand  the  pressure  generated. 

All  of  these  and  other  defects  have  been  found  in  actual  practice  over  many 
properties.  This  app.iiatu.s  has  been  puiehased  at  considerable  cost  and 
should  be  properly  maintained  in  order  to  make  them  available  for  the  service 
intended. 

The  purchase  of  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  however,  Is  a  very  essential  and 
economical  outlay  to  prevent  the  spread  of  possible  disastrous  fires,  as  the  ap- 
proved 2i-gallon  soda  and  acid  chemical  fire  extinguisher  is  one  of  the  best 
pieces  of  hand  fire  apjiaratus  known  to-day  for  the  extinguishment  of  small  or 
incipient  fires.  But,  like  any  other  mechanism,  it  needs  intelligent  and  careful 
supervision,  and  ihe  best  preventive  for  the  defects  noted  above  would  be  to 
assign  an  Intelligent  man  to  the  duty  of  charging  extinguishers  and  give  orders 
to  insiiect  them  once  a  week  to  see  that  they  are  in  condition  for  instant  use, 
this  man  to  be  held  responsible  for  the  condition  of  the  apparatus.  Carefully 
examine  hose,  hose  nozzle,  and  connection,  observing  whether  or  not  the  latter 
shows  signs  of  corrosion.  If  hose  shows  signs  of  deterioration,  have  a  new  hose 
provided. 

Agents  and  others  in  charge  of  small  properties,  with  insufficient  number  of 
extinguishers  to  warrant  the  assigning  of  one  man  to  look  after  them,  should 
be  given  full  directions  and  specially  instructed  that  they  will  be  held  directly 
responsible  for  the  condition  of  the  chemical  fire  extinguishers. 

Only  those  approved  by  the  Underwriters'  Laboratories  should  be  used.  The 
tise  of  others  may  be  dangerous  nnd  their  continued  use  should  be  forbidden 
unless  they  have  been  carefully  tested. 

Two  and  one-half  gallon  soda-and-acid  type  extinguishers  are  effective  on  in- 
cipient fires  where  water  or  solutions  containing  a  large  percentage  of  water 
are  effective.  They  are  not  effective  on  electric  arcs,  apparatus  and  wiring 
carrying  high  voltages.  For  this  reason  and  because  of  the  conductivity  of  the- 
liquid  they  are  not  recommended  for  this  service.  They  are  of  limited  service 
In  h.izardons  Ihjuid  fires.  They  must  be  i)rotected  from  freezing.  During  ex- 
tremely cold  weather  it  is  advisable  to  group  the  extinguishers  In  a  room 
suftiflently  heatetl  to  prevent  freezing.  They  should  be  hung  in  conspicuous 
pi  .ices,  the  top  not  over  six  feet  from  the  floor. 

They  should  be  di.scharged,  cleaned,  and  recharged  at  least  once  a  year  and 
the  date  marked  on  attached  tag.  At  least  two  extra  charges  for  each  extin- 
guisher should  be  kept  on  hand  so  that  It  can  be  Immediately  recharged  after 
using. 

Forty-gallon  sofla-and-acld  extinguishers  mounted  on  wheels  and  equipped 
with  suitable  hose  are  particularly  adapted  for  use  In  large  warehouses,  shop 
properties,  piers,  and  terminal  yards,  esiiicially  where  water  supplies  are  Inade- 
f|uate  or  the  properties  are  (llflicult  of  access.  They  should  be  kept  In  a  <'oii- 
venlent,  centrally  located  place  where  not  likely  to  freeze. 

One-quart  rarhon-tetrnchloride  type  extinguishers  are  effective  on  Incipient 
fires  In  hazardous  liquid,  calcium  carbide,  and  rapidly  burning  niali'rials 
(such  as  nitrocellulose,  "celluloid")  and  on  Incipient  fires  in  cotton  nnd  fab- 
rics. They  are  of  service  In  fires  not  ensily  pxtlnLMiisbod  by  water.  They  are 
especially  adapted  for  garage,  automobile,  ami  motor  bout  use  und  for  electri- 

84505°— 19 6 


66  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

cal  fires.  Because  of  low  freezina:  point  of  the  extinguishing  liquids  (minus 
50°  F.)  these  extinguisliers  are  recoiumenderl  for  such  service  M'here  low  tem- 
peratures prevail.  They  are  not  recommended  for  service  on  fires  In  freely 
burning  material  (sucli  as  wood)  of  any  considerable  quantity.  On  account  ol 
their  small  size,  besides  being  hung  in  conspicuous  places,  the  location  should 
also  be  designated  by  a  suitable  sign.  These  extinguishers  should  always  be 
kept  full,  any  liquid  u-ed  being  replaced  immediately.  An  extra  supply  of  the 
liquid  should  be  kept  on  hand. 

Dry  powder  extinguishers  usually  consist  of  a  tin  tube  containing  about  ten 
cents  worth  of  bicai'bonate  of  soda  (ordinary  baking  soda).  Under  certain 
favorable  conditions  they  have  been  known  to  extinguish  fires,  but  their  at- 
tempted use  is  liable  to  cause  delay  in  the  use  of  water  or  other  efti<ient  ex- 
tinguishing iigents.  Therefore  it  is  suggested  that  those  at  present  supplied  be 
removed  and  no  more  furnished. 


FIRE-EXTINGUISHING  APPARATUS  ON   LOCOMOTIVES. 

Experience  has  demonstrated  that  yard  engines  equipped  with  fire-extinguish- 
ing apparatus  have  proved  their  worth  for  fire  protection  around  railroad  prop- 
erty, particularly  at  terminals  and  in  large  car  yards  where  the  service  of  water 
mains  and  fire  hydrants  is  not  available. 

Many  of  the  railroads  of  the  country  to-day  have  equipped  their  yard  en- 
gines tliroughout  their  entire  sy.stem  with  fire-extinguishing  ap]>aratus. 

Engines  provided  with  fire-extinguishing  apparatus  afford  a  flexible  fire-pro- 
teetion  system,  as  the  equipment  can  be  moved  from  place  to  place  and  is  always 
ready  for  operation  by  the  engineer,  fireman,  and  yard  crews. 

The  extinguishing  apparatus  as  applied  to  engines  are  steam  pumps  or 
steam  nozzles  of  various  kinds.  There  are  several  types  capable  of  throwing 
very  satisfactory  fire  streams  from  which  the  motive-power  department  of 
each  railroad  can  select  the  type  best  suited  for  the  kind  of  yard  locomotives 
used. 

The  hose  equipment  recommended  should  consist  of  three  50-foot  sections  of 
2^-inch  unlined  linen  hose  coiled  in  cheese  form  and  carried  in  a  box  under  the 
running  board  or  In  the  cab,  the  nozzle  to  be  of  standard  smooth  bore  with 
f-lnch  opening.  This  equipment  with  a  steam  pressure  of  150  pounds  will 
provide  an  effective  fire  stream  capable  of  delivery  to  a  distance  of  75  feet. 
Where  impossible  to  obtain  unlined  linen  hose  cotton  rubber-lined  hose  may  be 
used. 

In  order  to  obtain  the  greatest  efficiency  from  yard  locomotives  equipped  with 
fire  extinguishing  apparatus,  yards  should  be  divided  into  districts,  each  of 
which  is  designated  by  a  number.  When  a  fire  is  discovered  a  general  alarm 
on  whistle  is  sounded  calling  the  attention  of  the  crews  of  yard  engines  and  by 
a  code  of  signals  engineers  and  firemen  of  locomotives  can  tell  immediately  in 
which  district  the  fire  is  located.  To  insure  prompt  response  yardmasters  and 
train  directors  are  instructed  to  give  the  locomotives  clear  track  in  reaching 
the  scene  of  the  fire,  and  in  cases  where  the  locomotives  are  moving  or  shifting 
cars,  the  crews  are  instructed  to  uncouple  the  engines  and  proceed  without 
delay  to  the  fire  immediately  upon  the  sounding  of  the  alarm,  on  the  way  to  the 
fire  connecting  up  the  hose  and  preparing  to  get  into  service  immediately  upon 
arrival.  A  fire  brigade  organization  should  be  formed  in  each  yard  or  district 
and  special  instructions  should  be  issued  by  the  division  superintendent  and 
posted  on  the  bulletin  boards  in  the  district  covered. 


FIRE   PROTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  67 

The  fire-brigade  organization  should  be  planned  on  the  following  lines: 
Conductor  should  be  held  responsible  for  his  own  crew. 
First  brakeraan :  Laying  of  hose  lines  and  assisting  at  nozzle. 
Fireman :  Coupling  hose  to  locomotive  extinguisher  and  assisting  engine- 
man. 
Engineman  :  Care  and  operation  of  fire  extinguisher. 
Suitable  fire  signals  should  be  arranged  for  summoning  yard  locomotives. 
Fire  drills  .«;hould  be  held  every  two  weeks  and  reports  made  to  the  superintend- 
ent   Water  should  not  be  turned  on  during  freezing  weather. 


FIRE  CARS. 


At  large  yards  where  water  supplies  are  not  readily  available  and  the  cost 
of  in.stalling  water  mains  is  prohibitive,  the  fire  protection  afforded  by  shifting 
engines  equipped  with  fire-extinguishing  apparatus  can  be  supplemented  by  fire 
cars;  these  fire  cars,  however,  should  not  be  considered  a  substitute  for  or  quali- 
fying the  desirability  of  equipping  all  shifting  engines  with  fire-extinguishing 
apparatus. 

Fire  cars  should  provide  for  a  total  tank  capacity  of  at  least  10,000  gallons 
and  .should  be  equipped  with  a  500  G.  P.  M.  steam  fire  pump  provided  with  a 
steam  connection  so  arranged  that  it  can  be  quickly  coupled  with  the  engine. 
The  fire  pump  should  supply  two  2A-inch  hose  connections.  A  supply  of  1.000 
feet  of  2i-inch  C.  R.  L.  double  jacket  fire  hose  should  be  kept  on  reel  on  tht 
fire  car;  also  a  supply  of  l|-iDch  smoothbore  nozzles,  spanners,  axes,  lanterns, 
fire  pails,  etc.,  should  be  provided.  It  is  preferable  to  equip  the  fire  car  with 
a  small  house  to  protect  the  fire  pump,  hose  equipment,  etc.  A  yard  locomotive 
should  be  readily  available  to  move  the  fire  car  whenever  neces.sary  and  the 
shop  or  yard  fire  brigades  should  be  drilled  every  two  weeks  in  handling  the 
fire  apparatus  and  fire  pump  on  the  fire  car. 

During  freezing  weather  suitable  arrangements  must  be  made  to  prevent  the 
water  in  the  fire-car  tank  from  freezing,  either  by  keeping  It  in  a  heated  build- 
ing or  by  keeping  an  engine  attached  at  all  times,  or  by  providing  a  connection 
with  the  yard  steam  lines. 

This  plan  has  been  already  adopted  by  two  or  three  Northern  raiU'oads. 


ASSIST  PUBLIC  FIRE  DEPARTMENTS. 

CoNVKMKNT     MKANS     OF     ACCKSS     TO     n.\IIt!OAD     TkRMTNALS,     SnOP8,     ANP     OtIIKK 

Pbopertiks  FOR  Pum.ic  Fire  Departments. 

A  very  Important  point,  which  .should  engage  the  attention  of  engineers  of 
railroads  or  terminal  superintendents,  is  tli«>  convenient  means  of  access  to  im- 
ixirtant  properties  for  the  city  fire  departments,  where  it  is  exi)ected  tlM\v 
would  render  Important  service  In  connection  with  fighting  any  possible  fires 
that  miglit  occur  In  largp  and  valuable  [)roi)ertles.  lU^adlly  accessible  roaduiiys 
Hliould  be  built  suitable  for  transporting  fire  engines  or  hose  carts  and  trucks, 
and  the  heads  of  th«'  city  fire  defiartnients  should  be  made  (horoughl.v  a<- 
fiualnted  with  such  permanant  hlghwayK.  and  railroad  employees,  such  as  Mt-o 
clilefH.  yarflinasters.  watchmen,  etc..  should  be  Instructwi  an  to  where  to  direct 
the  fire  departments  to  enter  the  premises,  when  neces.snry,  and  any  telephone 
operators  slmnld  be  given  similar  Instructions  In  nnler  to  direct  access  of  fire 
departments.    These  roadways  to  be  properly  illuminated. 


68  ¥mE   PROTECTION    FOE    RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

This  is  a  matter  which  is  very  apt  to  be  overlooked,  and  experience  has  shown 
that  witli  tlie  isolation  and  remoteness  of  many  important  railroad  properlips 
and  operations  that  very  little  attention  has  been  given  to  the  construction  of 
roadways  of  such  a  character  as  would  permit  the  entrance  of  city  fire  de- 
partments when  needed. 

A  very  good  plan  adopted  by  one  company  has  been  to  show  in  colored  ink  on 
plan  or  bltie  pVint  of  properties  the  various  paths  by  which  city  fire  companies 
can  reach  their  several  pioperties. 


A  WARNING  AS  COLD  WEATHER  APPROACHES. 

A  Seasonable  Word  to  Fire  Inspectoks,  Superintendents,  Master  Mechanics, 
Agents,  Foremen,  and  Others  in  Charge  of  Property  and  its  Fire  Pro- 
tection. 

As  the  winter  season  approaches  attention  should  be  called  to  the  care  and 
protection  of  heating  and  lighting  facilities  and  fire-extinguishing  apparatus, 
and  to  use  every  precautionary  measure  possible  in  the  interest  of  fire 
prevention. 

Special  attention  should  be  given  to  and  examinations  made  of  chimneys, 
flues,  stoves,  furnaces,  heaters,  and  pipes  leading  therefrom,  radiators,  and 
their  surroundings  to  see  that  they  are  in  proper  condition  before  putting  into 
service,  and  that  all  inflammable  surroundings  are  removed  or  protected. 
Steam  pipes  should  be  examined,  and  where  passing  through  or  in  contact  with 
woodwork  or  other  combustible  material  should  be  properly  insulated  or  sur- 
rounded with  an  ample  air  space.  The  placing  of  combustible  material  against 
steam  pipes  and  radiators  slioukl  be  prohibited. 

Lighting  installations  should  be  carefully  examined  and  properly  safe- 
guarded. 

Car  heaters  of  all  types  should  be  overliauled  and  put  in  safe  condition  for 
use. 

All  water  mains  and  pipes,  automatic  sprinkler  systems,  fire  pumps,  fire 
hydrants,  fittings,  valves,  connections,  and  outlets  should  be  flushed,  operated, 
or  examined  to  see  that  pipes  and  parts  are  free  of  obstructions  and  in  good 
operative  condition,  and,  where  tliere  is  liability  of  freezing,  to  arrange  the 
necessary  protection  against  frost,  or  see  that  water  supplies  to  exposed  pipe 
lines  are  properly  closed  off  at  valves  provided  for  the  purpose,  and  that  ex- 
posed pipes  and  fittings  are  properly  drained.  Selected  and  responsible  em- 
ployees should  be  fully  posted  as  to  the  purpose  of  all  controlling  valves  and 
make  frequent  inspection  of  all  fire  equipment. 

Measures  should  be  taken  to  prevent  or  retard  water  in  barrels  and  fire  pails 
in  cold  buildings  from  freezing  by  adding  salt,  a  combination  of  salt  and  bi- 
carbonate of  soda,  or  calcium  chloride.  Chemical  extinguishers  should  be  ex- 
amined to  see  that  they  are  properly  charged,  and,  where  liable  to  freeze,  i-e- 
ni.)ved  from  cold  and  placed  in  heated. rooms  during  winter.  Fire  hose  should 
lie  examined,  tested,  and  accessibly  located.  All  hose,  fire-hydrant  fittings,  and 
other  fire-extinguishing  apparatus  should  be  prepared  for  pi-ompt  service. 


WATCHMEN'S  SERVICE. 

A  good,  efficient,  intelligeuL  watchman  is  a  valuable  help  from  a  fire-proiec- 
tion  standpoint. 


FIKE    PROTECTIOX    FOR    R-VILROAD    PROPERTIES.  69 

A  man  who  carefully  goes  ovei*  every  portion  of  property  once  an  hour 
should  discover  most  fires  in  their  inoipiency.  and  if  he  is  intelligent  enough  to 
act  promptly,  turn  in  the  alarm  of  fire  and  then  do  what  he  can  to  extinguish 
it,  he  will,  in  most  cases,  render  valuable  aid. 

The  watchman  should  devote  his  energies  to  watching  the  property  and  not 
be  obliged  to  sweep  up.  attend  fires,  or  other  class  of  work.  He  should  be  fully 
instructed  as  to  just  what  to  do ;  he  should  know  the  location  of  fire-alarm  hoxos 
or  other  means  of  fire  notification;  he  should  know  the  use  and  location  of  tlie 
various  fire-protection  apparatus,  how  to  use  hand  fire  apparatus,  and  in  general 
have  an  intelligent  idea  of  all  matters  connected  with  the  fire  protection  of  the 
plant 

In  permitting  a  man  to  assume  watch  and  care  over  property  representing 
large  values,  the  management  should  employ  not  only  a  strong  and  able-bodied 
one.  but  one  who  is  trustworthy  and  honest,  as  we  should  realize  that  large 
values  are  at  stake  and  we  are  leaving  the  care  of  property  to  one  man  at  a 
time  when  he  must  temporarily  at  least  rely  on  his  own  resources.  It  certainly 
is  false  economy  to  hire  a  cheap  man  for  work  of  such  importance,  and  yet  we 
often  find  the  position  of  watchman  filled  by  an  aged,  decrepit,  unintelligent, 
or  otherwise  inefficient  man,  who  is  pr()l)ably  unfitted  for  any  other  kind  of 
work. 

He  should  report  for  duty  before  those  whose  responsibility  he  assumes 
leave  the  premises;  begin  his  first  inspection  or  tour  immediately  after  opera- 
tions are  suspended,  it  being  esjiecially  important  that  this  tour  be  carefully 
and  diligently  made,  including  all  parts  of  the  premises;  and  make  tours  of  in- 
spection once  every  hour  tliroughout  all  portions  of  the  property  during  the 
entire  night,  until  the  arrival  in  the  morning  of  such  persons  as  shall  relieve 
him  of  his  responsibility. 

.\n  interval  of  rest  of  from  15  to  20  minutes  between  each  tour  of  inspection 
should  be  given  the  watchman.  If  trip  consumes  le.ss  than  15  minutes,  two 
tours  should  be  made  each  hour. 

Where  the  premises  to  be  covered  are  of  such  area  as  to  consimie  an  houi-  or 
more  for  one  trip,  two  watchmen  should  be  employed,  either  dividing  the  area  or 
making  tours  alternately. 

Day  Skrvice  on  Sundays,  Holidays.  Etc. 

During  the  daytime  on  Sundays  and  holidays,  or  when  the  plant  fs  not  in 
operation  during  the  day,  tours  of  inspection  by  day  watchman  at  intervals  (if 
at  least  two  hours  are  recommended. 

MKTHODR    or    SlTl'KRVISTON. 

To  promote  the  ('(hclency  of  watchman's  service  a  system  of  sunorvlsinn 
should  he  employed,  of  which  the  three  i)riuclpal  methods  are  the  cen(riil- 
.si.'ition  system,  the  local  or  aiii)rovpd  sl;i(ion:iry  systems  with  st.'itionary  clo(  Ic 
connected  with  electric  wiring  to  designated  points,  and  Ihe  port.ibic  \\:it(li 
clock.     Stations  should  he  so  lo'ated  th.il  all  parts  of  proix-iiy  are  visited. 

The  "central-station"  system  has  the  advantage  of  Irnniediately  following 
n|.  ;iny  failure  of  the  watchman  to  register  his  rounds;  \t  is  hiiseil  mi  n  llxed 
rental  charge  and  can  only  be  used  in  the  larger  cities  and  towns. 

The  portable  watchman's  docks  have  been  greatly  improved  In  all  way.s. 
and  their  simplicity,  cheapness,  and  general  reliability  have  brought  them  Into 
comiiuMi  u.se  and  the  present  approved  types  give  gotxl  satisfaction. 

Kecords  of  .such  service  to  be  checked  and  r-hanged  flally  unless  the  clock 
la  arranged  to  regi.ster  distiuctly  for   more  than  a   12-hour  period,  In   which 


70  FIRE    PEOTECTION    FOR    RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

case  the  dials  may  remain  on  for  not  over  two  days.     Records  sliould  be  dated 
and  leapt  on  file  for  inspection. 

Qualifications  of  Watchman. 

The  following  qualifications  for  a  watchman  are  suggested  in  addition  to 
those  referred  to  above: 

Watchman  should  not  be  permitted  to  smoke  while  on  duty.  He  should  re- 
frain fi'om  all  intoxicants.  In  fact,  a  watchman  without  these  habits  is  par- 
ticularly preferable,  and  should  be  given  e.'^peeially  favorable  recognition  by  his 
employers. 

He  should  immediately  make  report  to  the  management  of  any  defective 
apparatus,  or  of  the  misplacement  of  the  same. 

Upon  assuming  his  regular  duties  he  must  see  that  all  fire  doors  and  shutters 
are  closed,  and  that  they  are  in  operative  order  where  they  are  not  of  the  self- 
closing  type.    He  must  close  doors  to  stairways  and  other  vertical  openings. 

The  watchman  must  carefully  olSserve  the  matter  of  cleanliness,  especially 
the  presence  of  oily  waste,  rags,  workmen's  clothes,  rubbish  and  useless  inflam- 
mable material.  He  should  take  instant  care  or  removal  of  same,  or  report  to 
management  for  attention. 

He  must  fuuiiliarize  himself  with  location  of  all  furnaces,  boilers,  heaters, 
or  other  heating  apparatus,  and  their  arrangement,  especially  observing  upon 
his  rounds  the  condition  of  same,  and  of  any  coml)ustible  material  nearby. 

Must  know  the  exact  location  of  gas  shut-ofO  valves,  and  of  electric  lighting 
and  power  cut-out  switch. 

He  must  have  full  instructions  as  to  the  details  of  operation,  turning  on  and 
shutting  oft  automatic  sprinkler  equipment. 

The  watchman  must  be  instructed  as  to  prompt  manner  in  which  to  com- 
municate instantly  with  superintendent  or  other  company  officials. 

He  must  not  leave  the  premises  unguarded  during  duty  hours.  He  should, 
during  his  rounds,  observe  from  the  premises  all  adjoining  exposing  properties. 
In  case  of  seeing  a  neighboring  fire,  he  should  also  turn  in  a  fire  alarm. 

Watchman  should  not  be  permitted  to  carry  or  use  other  than  safety  matches. 
He  should  be  provided  with  and  use  an  approved  safety  lantern  or  electric 
lamp. 

Expei-ience  has  demonstrated  that  in  certain  classes  of  properties  such  as 
grain  elevators,  coal  breakers,  piers,  woodworking  mills,  paint  shops  and  paint 
stock  houses,  oil  houses,  etc.,  only  safety  electric  lanterns  should  be  used. 

Tlie  watchman  mtist  never  lose  sinht  of  the  fact  that  he  is  intrusted  itnth 
the  important  responmhiUty  of  protective  large  values  against  loss  by  fire  and 
that  many  employees  are  dependent  for  their  livelihood  upon  the  permanent 
operation  of  the  plant  and  property  over  ichich  he  has  charge. 

Inspector's  Review  of  Watchman's  Clock  Records. 

The  Inspector  should  review  the  watchman's  records,  and  occasionally  visit 
the  plant  at  night  to  check  up  his  work.  The  inspector  should  take  the  time 
and  trouble  to  explain  to  the  watchman  the  use  of  the  fire  apparatus  to  such  an 
extent  that  the  watchman  can  give  the  proper  alarms  and  start  in  motion  any 
of  the  pumps  or  other  fire  appliances  which  are  not  absolutely  automatic.  The 
watchman  should  be  encouraged  to  assist  the  inspector  by  calling  to  the  in- 
spector's attention  any  conditions  that  he  may  observe  during  his  rounds  that 
would  be  of  interest  to  the  inspector  in  his  work. 


THE  FIRE  HAZARD  IN  CONNECTION  WITH  "  SMOKING.** 

For  several  years  past  records  have  shown  that  hundreds  of  thousands  of  dol- 
lars of  railroad  property  and  property  in  the  care  or  custody  of  railroads  as  car- 
riers hare  been  destroyed  by  fire  due  to  carelessness  and  indifference  on  the 


FIRE  PBOTEOTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.         71 

part  of  employees  In  connection  with  smoking  In  shops,  freight  stations,  ware- 
houses, etc. 

Every  year  adds  some  exceptional  losses  traceable  to  this  particular  class 
of  indifference.  It  should  be  recognized  that  large  values  are  involved  which 
should  be  preserved  and  that  there  must  be  a  personal  responsibility  felt  in 
accepting  the  regulations  and  orders  restricting  smoking  or  prohibiting  it  in 
properties  of  large  values  and  where  inflammables  are  handled  and  it  must 
be  recognized  to-day  more  than  ever,  that  property  values  should  not  be  dam- 
aged or  destroyed  through  carelessness  and  indifference  or  other  preventable 
causes.    Property  and  material  destroyed  cannot  be  replaced.    They  are  lost. 

Smoking  should  be  prohibited  m  .shnpa,  coaling  stations,  piers,  warehouses, 
storehouses,  freight  houses  and  offices,  including  record  rooms  and  around 
freight  platforms,  and  in  all  other  places  where  inflammahle  materials  are 
handled  or  stored,  and  if  not  already  done,  conspicuous  "NO  SMOKING"  signs 
should  be  posted,  and  all  watchmen  and  guards,  oflScers  and  otlier  employees 
hi  charge  of  the  property  must  be  instructed  to  s^ee  that  this  rule  is  rigidly 
en. "iced. 

If  we  restrict  the  hazard  of  smoking  and  prohibit  it  in  valuable  properties 
we  will  do  much  toward  preventing  the  possibility  of  large  property  destruc- 
tion by  fire  traceable  to  preventable  cau.ses  principally  through  carelessnesij 
and  indifference  to  dangers. 


FIRE  DANGER  IN  MACHINE-SHOP  SWEEPINGS. 

Machine-shop  sweepings  generally  con.sist  of  oily  waste,  iron  filings  or 
borings,  small  pieces  of  wood,  excelsior  and,  in  some  few  instances,  stray  pieces 
of  calcium  carbide  or  the  residue  from  an  oxyacetylene  machine.  Sweepings 
are  invariably  more  or  less  oily. 

Iron  tilings  or  borings  are  subject  to  heating  due  to  oxidation,  which  takes 
place  very  rapidly  in  the  pre.seuce  of  moisture  and  the  absence  of  oil  on  the 
metal.  There  are  instances  of  piles  of  iron  filings  becoming  heated  to  such  an 
extent  as  to  ignite  woodwork. 

Calcium  carbide  readily  heats  and  gives  off  inflammable  gas  when  moistened, 
likewise  the  oxyacetylene  machine  residue  which  has  not  spent  its  chemical 
action. 

The  wooden   pieces   and   excelsior   simply   add    fuel    to   the  combination    if 

Ignited. 

There  arises  the  necessity  of  taking  certain  precautionary  measures  in  the 
handling  of  machine  shop  sweepings.  The  sweepings  should  never  be  allowed 
to  lie  on  the  floor  overnight,  but  should  be  swept  up  and  removed  dally.  Metal 
cans  with  lids  form  an  excellent  receptacle  for  storing  the  sweepings  tem- 
porarily In  the  shop.  Oily  waste  and  inflammable  material  should  be  re- 
moved from  filings  before  storing.  Kiliiigs  should  then  be  deposited  outside 
of  the  building  where  they  will  be  sheltered  from  rain. 


WASTE  PAPERS. 

Waste  paper  jrenerally  cau.ses  an  uncleanly  condition  nn«l  Invften  an  added 
fire  hazard,  which  seems  to  vary  witli  the  buildln;;;  in  a  mo.l.  in  .  en  •!  i  n.i.-d 
building  the  pajjer  Is  kept  In  fair  to  g<M..I  condition,  while  iu  *iu  old  Inllaui 
mable  building  it  ia  apt  to  be  kept  very  poorly. 


72  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILKOAD   PROPERTIES. 

Methods  in  Practice. 

First.  Starting  at  tlie  desk  the  scrap  paper  is  supposed  to  be  deposited  In 
the  receptacles  provided,  such  as  manufactured  paper  baskets.  (Too  frequently 
tlie  paper  is-  thrown  on  floor  or  lodees  back  of  radiators.) 

Second.  Removed  by  janitor  at  night  or  early  morning. 

Third.  Burned  in  open  fireplaces,  furnaces  or  stoves  inside  building,  or 
outside  of  building  exposing  same ;  or  taken  to  basement  and  stored  in  bins  or 
old  burlap  bags.    In  a  few  cases  a  paper  press  is  used. 

Fourth.  After  sufficient  quantity  lias  accumulated  it  is  sold  directly  or 
shipped  to  some  central  point  for  disposal. 

With  all  the  haphazard  methods  of  caring  for  waste  paper  there  is  little 
wonder  that  so  many  fires  can  be  attributed  to  its  presence.  Matches,  supposedly 
out,  are  oi'teu  thrown  in  the  baskets,  scraps  on  floors  and  Huder,  and  pieces 
lodged  back  of  steam  coils,  in  hot-air  registers  or  near  furnaces  are  very  often 
Ignited. 

The  compensation  received  for  waste  paper  is  very  little,  and  it  docs  not 
pay  for  the  risk  taken  in  storing  it  in  buildings  in  a  careless  manner.     .V  sys- 
tematic collecting  and  storing  of  waste  paper  will  make  the  operation  a  safe  and 
profitable  one. 
•  The  following  suggestions  are  offered : 

Provide  incombustible  receptacles  for  waste  papers  In  all  offices,  preferably 
one  at  each  desk. 

Prohibit  throwing  papers  on  floors. 

Empty  all  paper  baskets  each  night  and  remove  any  paper  in  contact  with 
the  heating  system. 

Small  quantities  of  waste  papers  are  not  worth  saving  for  selling,  and  should 
be  burned  outside,  away  from  buildings  in  a  wire  net  incinerator  so  that  burn- 
ing pieces  can  not  be  blown  about.  It  is  poor  economic  practice  to  use  the 
heating  apparatus  in  the  building  for  burning,  besides  it  presents  a  hazard  in 
having  it  in  the  furnace  room  and  also  in  tliat  burning  paper  may  get  through 
flue  openings  not  properly  capped.    Open  fireplaces  inside  should  never  be  u.sed. 

Where  local  facilities  can  be  used  to  dispose  of  waste  papers  daily  or  every 
few  days,  a  large  metal-lined  storage  box  with  lid  should  be  provided  and  kept 
in  basement  or  outside  of  building  for  the  temporary  storage  of  the  papers.  This 
practice  must  be  watched  carefully  and  regulated  so  that  the  storage  box  is 
emptied  before  it  is  full. 

In  large  office  buildings,  terminals  and  such  property  where  waste  paper 
accumulates  rapidly,  install  a  hand  paper  press.  Keep  press  in  basement,  pref- 
erably in  separate  fireproofed  room. 

Prohibit  storing  paper  in  bags. 

Place  all  papers  collected  at  night  immediately  in  press  or  storage  box. 

Keep  press  and  storage  box  out  of  furnace  room. 

Keep  three  fire  pails  filled  with  water  or  chemical  fire  extinguisher  in  storage 
room. 

As  soon  as  a  number  of  bales  of  paper  are  collected  arrange  to  dispose  of 
same. 

Fireproof  rooms-  for  waste  paper  can  be  constructed  in  basement,  of  concrete, 
brick  or  tile,  equipped  with  fire  doors  or  are  attained  by  the  lining  of  rooms 
with  tile. 


STANDARD  WASTE  CAN. 

Large  quantities  of  cotton  or  wool  waste  are  used  in  railroad  properties  for 
clpiining  Tiiachinery  or  other  purposes.  Oily  waste  is  liable  to  spontaneous 
ignition  and  has  been  a  fi-equent  cau.se  of  tire.     , 


FTBE   PROTECTION    FOE   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  73 

Cotton  or  wool  waste  or  rags  and  an  oxidizing  oil.  such  as  most  nnimal  or 
venerable  oils,  form  an  undesirable  combination,  and  wben  used  care  must  be 
tt^ken  to  see  that  they  are  not  allowed  to  lie  around  or  be  swept  into  corners, 
where  they  may  heat  and  ignite.  Pure  mineral  oil  will  not  oxidize,  and  the 
hazard  of  spontaneous  isnition  is  not  present  wliere  this  is  used,  but  as  the 
mineral  oils  are  apt  to  be  adulterated  with  vegetable  or  animal  oils  no  feeling 
of  security  should  be  allowed  to  exist  and  the  grejitest  care  should  be  exercised. 

(ireasy  and  oily  waste  or  rags  are  not  only  subject  to  spontaneous^  ignition, 
but  make  an  intense  fire,  which  is  difficult  to  extinguish. 

Metal  cans  of  approved  construction,  supported  on  legs  and  having  self-closing 
lids,  should  be  distributed  about  shops,  and  orders  issued  that  all  oily  waste 
sliould  be  placed  therein.  Cans  should  be  emptied  at  close  of  the  day's  work, 
or  oftener.  if  necessary,  and  oily  waste  burned  or  deposited  in  reclaiming  bin. 
It  is  recommended  that  a  special  man,  particularly  in  machine,  paint,  and  wood- 
working shops,  make  a  daily  inspection  of  the  entire  building  to  remove  any 
oily  waste  that  had  been  cai-elessly  left  in  out-of-way  pl-aces.  such  as  under 
benches,  back  of  steam  coils,  etc. 

The  National  Standaid  can  is  the  best  type  obtainable  and  should  be  used. 
Cans  bearing  the  label  of  the  Underwriters'  Laboratories  may  be  obtained 
from  various  manufacturers. 

The  rules  and  requirements  of  the  National  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters  for 
the  construction  of  waste  cans,  are  as  follows : 

Size. — To  be  not  smaller  than  11  inches  diameter  and  11  inches  deep  inside, 
nor  larger  than  22  by  25  inches  inside,  if  used  for  oily  waste.  In.side  diameter 
to  be  not  less  than  90  per  cent  of  height,  excluding  legs.  It  is  desirable  to  u.se 
a  number  of  smaller  cans,  rather  than  fewer  large  ones. 

Body. — For  cans  11  by  11  inrhes  inside,  not  less  than  No.  26  gauge  United 
States  standard  (0.0187  inch)  galvanized  iron  or  steel,  and  increase  thickness 
one  number  in  gauge  for  each  .3-inch  increase  In  diameter. 

J^ega. — To  be  made  of  band  iron  not  less  than  12  gauge  United  States  stand- 
ard (0.1093  inch),  three-fourths  inch  wide,  riveted  to  side  and  bottom  of  can, 
two  rivets  at  each  end,  and  not  less  than  3  inches  high  for  cans  11  by  11  Inches, 
three  legs  on  each  can ;  for  large  sizes,  not  more  than  4  inches  high,  gauge  and 
width  increased  in  proportion  to  size  of  can,  using  11  by  11  Inches  as  base. 

Cover. — To  be  In  two  scction.s,  width  of  one  section  to  be  equal  to  about 
one-third  the  diameter  and  riveted  to  the  can  with  the  movable  lid  i»crmanently 
and  freely  hinged  to  the  rigid  section  without  .soldering,  and  to  have  a  device 
to  prevent  opening  more  than  a  GO-degree  angle  from  horizontal  and  weighted 
•ufflclently  to  make  closure  positive  and  automatic.  Iron  to  be  of  at  least  two 
numbers  heavier  than  the  body,  lid  to  extend  beyond  the  body  of  the  can.  fin- 
ished wltli  a  hemmed  or  wired  edge,  and  made  rigid  by  two  strips  of  band  Iron 
one-elghtli  by  1  inch,  riveted  Inside  lengthwi.se  and  outside  crosswise,  resiwc- 
tlvely,  In  the  middle  of  the  lid,  the  r)uler  end  bent  upward  at  an  angle  of  about 
45  degrees. 

Handles. — To  be  riveted  to  the  rigid  jfortidu  (tf  \\w  cover  and  pnrcrably  made 
from  band  Iron  one-eighth  by  1  inch,  bent  to  form  a  stop  for  the  lid.  Side 
handles  must  be  .supplied  on  cans  Inrger  In  dinnicter  thnn  10  Inches. 

i'(rtiHtrvx'lum.—Cjnn  to  be  asspmbltfl  with  all  .senina  lock-Joluled  or  rlv«'(ed 
and  attachments  riveted  on.  I'.ody  of  can  1<»  be  wired  at  top  with  wire  not 
smaller  than  No.  9  for  <an  11  by  11  Inches,  proportionately  heavier  for  larger 
cans,  or  finished  with  baud  iron  of  equivalent  strength. 

l/«/A-tnr/.— lOach  can  to  be  plainly  and  peiiiiancntly  marked  with  its  trude- 
nuNie  and  the  nunie,  luitials,  or  Irade-maik  of  llie  liinnufadurer. 


74  FIRE   PKOTECTTON    FOR   Tt.VTLROAD   PROPERTIES. 

Reclaiming  On,  From  Waste. 

Where  It  Is  the  practice  to  reclaim  oil  from  waste  and  use  the  waste  again, 
the  process  should  be  done  in  a  room  of  tire-resisting  construction  or  in  a  well- 
detached  building. 

Clean  Waste. 

Metal  waste  cans  or  metal  receptacles  with  covers  are  recommended  for  all 
supplies  of  clean  waste  in  roundhouses,  shop  buildings,  or  other  miscellaneous 
properties,  as  almost  any  collection  of  so-called  "  clean  waste  "  is  liable  to  have 
in  it  oily  waste,  where  an  employee  has  used  a  small  portion  for  wiping  off  ma- 
chinery or  for  wiping  in  paint  shops,  etc.  The  common  practice  of  each  em- 
ployee storing  a  supply  of  so-called  "  clean  waste "  in  his  wooden  locker  is 
hazardous. 


HAZARD  OF  OPEN-FLAME  TORCHES. 

Numerous  fires  originating  from  the  careless  handling  of  open-flame  torches  in 
and  about  various  railroad  buildings  and  rolling  stock  forcibly  draw  attention 
to  the  hazard  incident  to  this  form  of  lighting.  While  the  danger  attending  the 
use  of  open-flame  oil  torches  is  generally  recognized,  we  believe  the  elimination 
or  safeguarding  of  this  hazard  is  not  receiving  the  attention  that  it  should  on 
the  part  of  many. 

The  use  of  torches  should  be  confined  to  under  and  around  locomotives.  Every 
care  should  be  exercised  by  employees  when  using  torches,  both  as  to  handling 
and  storing,  and  when  not  in  use  they  should  be  kept  in  metal  receptacles. 

The  use  of  torches  in  coaling  stations  should  be  prohibited  at  all  times  and  if 
electric  lighting  is  not  available,  safety  lanterns  should  then  be  used. 

Inspectors'  oil  or  electric  lanterns  only  should  be  used  for  car  inspection. 

The  following  losses  have  been  specially  selected  to  point  out  the  hazard 
incident  to  either  tlie  careless  handling  or  improper  storage  of  torches : 

A  fire  which  destroyed  several  small  wooden  shop  buildings  originated  in  a 
cupboard  used  by  the  workmen  for  individual  tools  and  clothing,  caused  by  an 
engine  overhauler  looking  for  a  bolt  in  the  cupboard  and  using  an  ordinary 
torch,  the  flame  of  which  came  in  contact  with  the  clothing  in  the  cupboard. 

Fire  originated  in  one  of  a  number  of  wooden  clothes  lockers  in  a  lumber 
foreman's  office  at  shops,  caused  by  lighted  torch  left  therein  by  one  of  the  em- 
ployees. 

Fire  originating  from  the  careless  handling  of  a  torch,  started  in  the  upper 
part  of  a  wooden  constructed  mechanical  coaling  station  at  a  large  shop  plant 
and  before  it  was  extinguished  by  shop  employees  and  town  volunteer  fire 
department  with  hose  streams,  the  station  and  machinery  suffered  a  loss  to  the 
extent  of  about  50  per  cent.  This  station  was  lighted  with  electricity  but  em- 
ployees had  been  in  the  habit  of  using  torches  around  machinery  for  making 
repairs  and  oiling. 

Fire  caused  by  flame  from  a  torch  used  by  a  car  inspector  ignited  burlap 
wrapping  in  a  box  car,  badly  damaging  the  car  and  lading,  consisting  of  tires. 


STORAGE  AND  HANDLING  OF  SMALL  OIL  SUPPLIES  AT  MISCEL- 
LANEOUS RAILROAD  PROPERTIES,  OTHER  THAN  GENERAL 
STORAGE  POINTS. 

A  considerable  hazard  in  connection  with  depots,  freight  houses,  warehouses, 
towers,  coaling  stations,  and  other  miscellaneous  properties  along  the  line  of 
road  is  the  storage  of  oil  supplies  without  proper  safeguards;  and  at  the  same 
time  it  is  undoubtedly  one  of  the  most  difficult  hazards  to  guard  against. 


FIRE    PKOTECTIOX    FOE    RAILROAD    PKOPEETIES.  75 

On  many  railroads,  small  supplies  of  oil  will  be  found  scattered  around 
throushout  the  various  station  huildinss,  quantity  and  location  depending  upon 
the  use  it  is  put  to  and  convenience  of  the  user.  At  many  places  the  oil  supjilies 
will  be  surrounded  by  an  oil  soaked  floor  and  small  quantities  of  oily  waste  or 
niLTs  will  be  in  evidence:  no  thought  whatsoever  is  given  to  the  hazard  involved. 

The  dangers  of  such  storage  without  proper  precautions  are  evident,  particu- 
larly where  floors  become  thoroughly  saturated  from  constant  lamp  filling  drip- 
pings. 

Many  agents  not  only  u.se  oil  for  illuminating  purposes  but  likewise  take  care 
of  signal  lights,  and  in  some  cases  supply  of  gasoline  for  cooking  and  motor  car 
purposes  is  kept  on  hand.  Sometimes  this  oil  is  kept  outside  of  buildings  but 
more  often  it  is  found  stored  in  the  coal  bin,  or  in  one  corner  of  the  freight 
room,  and  quite  frequently  in  concealed  places  like  closets  underneath  stairways 
or  \\ith  records. 

Suggestions  and  Recommendations. 

Oil  storage  of  every  nature  at  station  buildings  and  properties  other  than 
standard  oil  houses  should  be  entirely  removed,  wherever  possible,  and  housed 
in  a  separate  and  inexpensive  sti'ucture  built  expressly  for  that  purpose,  in  a 
portion  of  which  provision  can  also  be  made  for  the  coal  .supply.  This  combina- 
tion coal  and  oil  hou.se  should  be  located  a  sufficient  distance  from  all  other 
proi)erties  to  permit  possible  destruction  by  fire  without  endangering  any  other 
structure,  but  not  far  enough  away  to  seriously  interfere  with  its  convenient  and 
economical  use. 

All  lamps  and  lanterns  to  be  filled  and  trimmed  in  this  structure. 

The  ordinary  metal  tray  or  sand  box  is  of  course  an  advantage  over  the  old 
system  of  allowing  cans  of  oil  to  set  on  wooden  floors  of  freight  house,  but  for 
rea.sons  explained  ab(jve,  it  is  the  recommendation  that  a  separate,  isolated  coal 
and  oil  house  be  given  preference ;  but  if  for  any  reason  this  can  not  be  arranged, 
or  wherever  it  becomes  impracticable  to  construct  a  separate  building,  it  is 
re<-oinmended  that  a  metal-lined  oil  cabinet  for  filling  lamps  and  the  suu-ago  of 
oil  be  installed  in  freight  room. 

Regardless  of  where  or  how  oil  is  stored  a  supply  of  fine  dry  sand  for  ex- 
tinguishing fires  is  a  requisite  that  .should  never  be  overlooked. 

At  large  terminal  warehouses,  where  electricity  is  tisually  installed  for  liglit- 
ing,  it  is  frequently  f(»und  that  oil  Is  stored  In  building  (generally  basement), 
often  In  large  quantities,  for  ns<^  in  car  heaters  during  the  winter  months  or 
for  oiling  warehouse  trucks,  etc.  Regardless  of  precautions  taken  to  guard 
against  fire  in  connection  with  such  storage  the  danger  is  great  and  the  immense 
values  at  risk  do  not  warrant  the  prt'smce  of  oil  of  any  kin<l  or  quantity.  It  is 
recommended  In  such  instances  that  a  separate  building  be  constructed  similar 
to  that  suggested  f(»r  station  buildings  and  miscellaneous  properties  wherever 
practicable.  Where  it  is  felt  tiiat  a  larger  expense  is  warranted,  or  the  city 
ordinances  or  fire  authorities  prohibit  the  const i-uctiou  of  a  wooden  building,  a 
brick  or  conaeLe  oil  huii.st!  should  be  built. 


FIRING  UP  LOCOMOTIVES. 

(a)  Hhnvinfjs  and  oil. — Mixing  bin  should  be  of  metnl  with  tlftht  fltttng 
«"lf-cluslng  cover  and   shoidd   be   kei»t   away   from   InllnnnMnMe   hi.'I't:  ■' 

1 1))  Oily  waste, — Should  ho  kept  in  aafety  waste  cana  or  barreL*  and  in  the 
hiiiallest  quantity  practicable. 


76  FIBJB  PROTECTION    TOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

(c)  Fuel  oil. — Equipment  and  operation  should  coulorui  to  the  rules  of  the 
Nntional  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters. 

(d)  Kindlmg.—ShouM  preferably  be  kept  In  a  closed  shed,  not  exposing 
other  property.  If  piled  in  the  open,  should  he  a  safe  distance  from  tracks  and 
buildings. 

"SAFETY"  VOLATILE  OIL  CANS. 

Where  bcnidne,  gasoline,  naphtha  and  other  inflammable  liquids  are  used  for 
cleaning  or  spraying,  care  should  be  taken  to  see  that  the  smallest  quantities 
possible  are  used,  and  that  the  same  are  handled  in  approved  safety  cans 
especially  designed  for  the  purpose. 

Ascertain  for  what  purpose  inflammable  liquids  may  be  used,  and  if  a  sub- 
stitute not  so  hazardous  could  be  employed. 

Find  out  where  cans  are  stored  overnight,  when  they  are  filled,  and  where 
main  supply  of  oil  is  stored. 

Do  not  permit  cans  to  be  placed  in  rooms  having  open  lights  or  fires. 

Cans  should  be  substantially  constructed,  without  leak,  and  must  have  proper 
working  automatic  valve  outlet.     They  should  be  of  standard  type. 

Inflammable  liquids  are  dangerous  regardless  of  the  manner  in  which  they 
are  used,  and  by  no  means  should  they  be  permitted  in  open  pans,  pails  or 
other  open  receptacles. 

ROOF  TIMBERS  OF  BLACKSMITH  SHOPS,  FOUNDRIES,  AND 
SIMILAR  BUILDINGS. 

The  roof  timbers  of  blacksmith  shops,  foundries,  and  similar  class  of  build- 
ings should  be  periodically  cleaned  of  all  soot,  dust.  etc.  If  allowed  to  collect 
thereon  it  adds  to  the  rapid  ignition  and  spread  of  flames. 

After  cleaning  roof  timbers  a  good  coating  of  whitewash  should  be  applied, 
the  following  fomnula  being  considered  a  good  fire  retardent : 

White-wash  Formula  as  Used  by  the  United  States  Government. 

Slack  one-half  bushel  of  unslacked  lime  with  boiling  water,  keeping  it  cov- 
ered during  the  process;  strain  it,  and  add  a  peck  of  salt  dissolved  in  warm 
water;  three  pounds  of  ground  rice,  put  in  boiling  water  and  boil  to  a  thin 
paste;  one-half  pound  of  powdered  Spanish  whiting  and  a  pound  of  clear  glue 
dissolved  in  hot  water;  mix  these  well  together  and  let  the  mixture  stand  for 
several  days.  Keep  the  wash  thus  prepared  in  a  kettle  or  portable  furnace  and 
when  used  put  it  on  as  hot  as  possible  with  painter's  or  white-wash  brushe.^. 

White  wash  affords  better  service  when  applied  by  a  hand  brush  rather  than 

a  spraying  machine. 

PAINT  STOCK  AND  ITS  FIRE  HAZARDS. 

At  shops  and  terminals  where  it  is  necessary  to  carry  a  stock  of  paints  and 
paint  oils  it  is  important  that  every  precaution  be  taken  to  reduce  to  a  minimuui 
tlie  fire  risk  arising  from  the  hazards  involved,  the  greatest  of  which  are : 

First. 

f?pontaneous  ignition  due  to  carelessness  in  not  removing  and  destroying  all 
inflammable  material  such  as  rags,  icaste.  etc.,  tchicfi  have  hecome  imprefninled 
with  paints  or  oils. — Coming  uuder  this  class  we  might  mention  linseed  oil  and 
lampblack. 


FIRE    PKOrECTIOX    FOB    RAIF.ROAD    PROPERTIES.  77 

Linseed  oil  upon  waste  or  rags  is  a  hazard  that  Is  generally  recognized,  but 
all  paints  and  paint  oils  should  be  considered  hazardous  as  regards  spontaneous 
Ignition  if  fibrous,  combustible  material  be  impregnated  with  them. 

Lampblack  mixed  with  oils  such  as  linseed  and  turpentine  becomes  an  un- 
stable product.  Its  hazards  are  similar  to  those  attributed  to  charcoal,  al- 
though Its  quality  to  absorb  oxygen  is  more  energetic  than  charcoal.  Moisture 
and  heat  tend  to  accelerate  the  point  of  spontaneous  ignition. 

Second. 

The  danger  of  vapor  ignition  from  inflammable  or  volatile  oils  or  paints. — 
Under  this  class  might  be  mentioned  benzine,  turpentine,  turpentine  substitutes, 
paints,  varnishes,  and  lacquers. 

Benzine  or  other  inflammable  solvents  are  very  often  used  in  paint  thinners, 
japans,  driers,  etc. 

Turpentine  is  inflammable,  but  only  slightly  volatile,  at  ordinary  tempera- 
tures, and  i.';  less  dangerous  than  most  solvents.  It  is  seldom  used  pure,  how- 
ever. Volatile  solvents  are  often  used  with  it  on  account  of  cheapening  and  for 
quicker  drying  purposes.  Commercial  turpentine  may  contain  impurities  which 
lower  the  flash  point. 

Turpentine  suhstitntes. — There  are  various  turpentine  substitutes  upoi.  the 
Diaiket  con.sisting  wholly  or  principally  of  petroleum  products  which  have  as 
high  a  fla<:h  point  as,  and  consequently  are  no  more  hazardous  than,  turpentine. 
Viirious  other  turpentine  substitutes,  however,  have  flash  points  approximately 
from  32°  F.  up,  and  it  is  suggested  that  a  guaranty  he  obtained  from  the 
m.iiiufacturer  that  the  flash  point  is  not  below  80°  F. 

I'aint  in  which  a  low  flash-point  compound  is  used  is  a  hazard  if  a  flame  or 
an  open  light  may  be  brought  near  the  containhig  vessel  or  a  freshly  painled 
surface.  Many  ready-mixed  paints,  especially  of  cheaper  grades,  have  a  low 
flash  point. 

^'(lmishes  are  of  two  kinds;  so-called  turpentine  varnishes  and  alcohol  or 
spirit  varnislies.  All  sjiirit  varnishes  present  a  flash  hazard,  and  so  do  many 
of  the  so-called  turpentine  varnishes,  owing  to  the  inflannnable  solvents  used. 

LacQuers,  unless  known  to  have  a  high  flash  point,  should  be  considered 
ha'/.ardous,  and  only  a  minimum  quantity  allowed  outside  of  stock  room  or  vault. 
]'ni-nif<h  renwveis  usually  contain  highly  volatile  or  inflammable  sub«tnnce.s, 
and  only  a  minimum  quantity  should  be  permitted  outside  of  stock  room. 

SUGOESTIONB    AND    RECOMMENDATIONS. 
UKJATION   OF   PAINT   AND   PAINT-OILS   STOCK. 

Storage,  handling,  and  mixing  to  be  In  a  detached  building,  and  wherever 
possible  located  in  a  nonexposing  position  to  all  oth(M-  property. 

OOlfSTBUCTION    OF    STOKAOK    RUIT-DINO. 

To  he  of  flre-reslstlve  construction,  one   story    with   or   without   hnsement ; 
preferably  of  small  area  or  subdivided  by  standard  fire  walls  into  rooms  not 
over  2.500  Hquare  feel  In  area.     Standard  nutomatlc  Are  doors  In  the  walls  as 
•'I'll  as  standard  automatic  trapdoor  at  opening  to  bnsement    (preferably  con 
iinct  outside  stairway  to  basement)  ;  windows  to  be  wired  gla.ss  In  metal  sash 
frnnip.     Ruilding  should  be  well  ventilated. 
Jl'juling.     Steam  or  hot  water. 


78  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

Lighting. — Electric;  wiring  in  metal  conduit;  incandescent  lamps  provided 
with  vapor-tight  globes  and  wire  guards ;  keyless  sockets-  and  outside  fuse  and 
switch  terminals. 

Precautions. 

Oil  thinners  and  solvents  should  always  be  kept  in  metal  tanks  or  cans. 

Metal  drip  pans  should  be  placed  under  all  faucets  and  these  frequently  and 
systematically  cleaned.  Paint  and  oil  drippings  should  be  removed  daily. 
When  an  absorbent  is  necessary,  sand  should  be  used  and  immediately  disposed 
of.    Never  use  sawdust. 

Benches  or  shelves  to  be  of  metal  or  noncombustible  material  and  should  be 
kept  cleaned. 

Waste  cans. — At  least  one  standard  metal,  self-closing,  oily-waste  can  must 
be  provided.  All  oily  waste  or  rags  to  be  deposited  therein  and  removed  from 
building  at  the  close  of  each  day's  work. 

"  No  smoking  "  signs  must  be  posted  in  building  and  on  the  outside  of  build- 
ing at  doorway. 

Sign  reading  "  Danger — keep  lights  and  fires  away "  should  be  posted  at 
doorway.    No  open  lights  or  portable  oil  lights  should  be  used. 

Employees'  clotlilng  should  be  kept  in  well-ventilated  metal  lockers  located 
elsewhere  than  in  stock  room. 

Where  finishing  is  done,  benzine  or  naphtha  must  not  be  used  by  workmen 
for  washing  hands.  Crude  oil  or  kerosene  is  a  good  substitute  to  remove  varnish 
and  filler  from  the  hands  where  special  preparations  are  not  provided. 

Highly  volatile  oils. — Large  quantities  of  oils,  such  as  gasoline,  benzine,  and 
naphtha,  should  be  isolated.  They  are  less  hazardous  when  buried  In  the 
gi'ound  or  in  a  separate  fire-resisting  vault  outside  of  the  regular  paint  stock 
house. 

Acids  should  be  stored  away  from  combustible  material. 

Varnish  removers  should  be  considered  as  highly  inflammable,  and  their  use 
and  storage  restricted  to  a  minimum,  unless  reasonably  certain  they  do  not 
contain  dangerous  constituents. 

Lampblack  should  be  kei^t  in  metal  cans  or  barrels  provided  with  metal 
covers  and  away  from  source  of  heat,  oils,  or  moisture. 

Interior  Fike  Protection. 

Automatic  sprinkler  protection. — ^To  be  installed  throughout  building  or 
building  to  be  provided  with  a  high-pressure  steam  jet  or  pipe  line  for  flooding 
with  steam  in  case  of  fire,  operating  valves  outside. 

Approved  hand  chemical  fire  extinguishers,  sufficient  In  number  and  so  lo- 
cated as  to  be  quickly  accessible,  are  recommended. 

Sand  pails. — Three  or  more  pails  of  clean,  dry  sand  (with  hand  scoop  for 
throwing)  to  be  provided  and  located  on  shelf  or  hooks  near  doorway  or  at 
other  accessible  points. 

GENERAL   RECOMMENDATIONS   IN   CONNECTION   WITH    STORAGE 
OF  RAILWAY  FUSEES  AND  TORPEDOES. 

Railway  fusees  and  track  torpedoes  are  classed  by  the  Interstate  Commerce 
Commission  in  the  group  of  "less  dangerous  explosives"  as  fireworks ;  more 
specifically  fusees  as  "  common  fireworks  "  and  torpedoes  as  "  special  fireworks  " 
with  placards  "Inflammable,"   "Handle  carefully"   and   "Keep  fire  away." 

The  hazard  of  railway  fusees  and  torpedoes  is  recognized  by  the  Bureau  of 
Explosives,  to  whom  due  acknowledgment  is  given  for  suggestions  as  to  han- 
dling or  storage. 


PIBE  PEOrECTION    FOR    RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  79 

FusEEf? — Handled  in  <  )kiginal  Unbroken  Shipping  Packages  in  Quantities  at 

DiRTRIBTTTION    CENTERS. 

Fu&ees  should  be  siored  in  a  small  luagaiiiue  apart  from  any  other  building 
and  preferably  40  feet  from  other  building  or  lumber  storage.  Local  con- 
ditions at  all  storage  points  must  be  considered.  This  magazine  should  he 
coustructetl  of  light  material,  covered  inside  and  outside  with  incombustible- 
material.  It  should  be  so  cons:tructed  as  lo  keep  out  rain,  snow  and  sparks, 
anil  should  be  provided  with  a  ventilator.  No  artificial  means  of  heating  or 
lighting  shall  bo  employed.  Dryness  may  be  promoted  by  having  tlie  magazine 
elevated  a  foot  or  more  above  the  ground,  and  supported  on  posts  or  pilings 
aiKl  so  arranged  that  there  is  free  circulation  of  air  between  the  bottom  of  the 
niasazine  and  the  surface  of  the  ground. 

LOCAL   SUPPLIES   OF   FUSEES    FOK   DISTKIBUTION   OVEU    STOI'.KHOUSE    COUNTEK. 

Not  more  than  4  gross  of  fusees  to  be  kept  in  general  storehouse  at  any  time. 
Any  broken  packages  to  be  kept  in  a  tight  metal-lined  or  i-inch  asbestos- 
board-lined  wood  box  with  a  spring-hinge  or  self-closing  cover.  Kox  to  be  used 
for  no  other  purpose  nnd  kept  in  a  dry  place,  not  in  proximity  to  any  artificial 
source  of  light  or  heat. 

Torpedoes — Handled  in  Original  Unbroken  Shipping  Pacicages  in  Quanti- 
ties AT  Distribution  Centers. 

Torpedoes  should  be  stored  in  a  separate  magazine  similar  to  that  used 
for  fusees. 

l.OCAI.    SUPPLIES    OF    TORPEDOES    FOB    DISTRIBUTION    OVKU    STOREHOUSE    COUNTEK. 

Not  more  than  10  gross  of  torpedoes  to  be  kept  in  general  storehouse  at  any 
lime.  Broken  package.s  or  loose  r(ii[!"does  to  l)e  kept  in  si  tight  :J-inch  asbestos- 
board-lined  wood  box,  with  sliding  cover,  used  for  no  other  purpose.  A  sliding 
cover  is  recommended  in  preference  to  a  drop-hinged  cover  to  prevent  the  pos- 
sibility of  a  premature  explosion  of  torpedo  in  case  a  torpedo  should  rest 
Dver  edge  of  box.  Box  to  be  kept  in  a  dry  place  not  in  proximity  to  any 
artificial  source  of  light  or  heat.  Care  should  be  observed  to  prevent  the  ac- 
•ridental  dropping  of  torpedoes  on  floors  where  they  might  be  explodeil  by 
.stepping  on  them  or  being  run  over  by  trucks. 

General. 

I'laeard  all  magazines  and  .storage  boxes: 

"Explosives — Handle  carefully — Keep  fire  away." 

<>>  not  .store  fusees  and  torpedoes  in  same  magazine  or  box. 
I  Mrpedoes  should  not  be  carried  on   the  jierson,  or  In   tlie  cIoHiing  of  em- 

•  •es. 

''I  not  store  fusees  and  torpedoes  with  oUxt  pvplosives  or  inflanunables. 

xercl.se  care  in  keeping  fusees  dry  ;  improperly  made  fusees  if  d.imp  are  liable 

pontaneous  ignition. 

iokeii,  wet,  •>!•  oily  fusees  should  be  destrny<'d  li\  l)iiiriing. 
liroken  or  defective  torpedoes  should  be  destroyed  by  Immersing  In  water. 

Fn8EF,S  AND  TORI'EDOES Ml8CELLANEOi;S  .Su«'PLIE8. 

Such  lf)ose  suppli<'s  as  have  been  obtained  by  trainmen  from  storeliciuscs 
and  as  are  fre<iuently  found  in  trainmen's  elotlx'S  lockers,  engine  cab,  cal>oose.s, 
towers  and   stations,   with   no  designated   receptacle,   but  loo.sely   placed.     We 


80  FIRE   PEOTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

suggest  as  a  suitable  receptacle  for  these  small  supplies  a  small  metal  or  rec- 
tangular-shaped wood  box  with  spring-hinged  cover.  Box  to  be  only  large  enough 
to  hold  the  requisite  number  of  fusees,  with  one  end  of  box  partitioned  off  for 
storage  of  the  torpedoes.  Racks  may  be  used  to  advantage  in  cabooses  for 
fusees. 

The  above  suggestions  not  to  interfere  with  any  special  and  safe  practice 
already  in  operation,  such  as  that  in  connection  with  passenger  trainmen's 
metal  receptacles,  ;is  are  now  used  for  carrying  flags,  fusees  and  torpedoes; 
but  to  make  provision  for  a  special  receptacle  where  not  provided  in  the  cases 
mentioned  above. 


GAS  AND  GASOLINE  ENGINES. 

In  Inspecting  these  devices  the  following  features  should  be  observed : 

(a)  Gas  or  gasoline  engines  should  not  be  located  in  rooms  where  dust  and 
inflammable  flyings  prevail,  or  materials  of  any  sort  are  stored.  The  engine 
room  should  be  kept  clean  and  free  from  accumulations  of  oil  and  grease,  and 
should  be  well  ventilated.  Rooms,  containing  gasoline  engines  should  be  lighted 
by  electricity  and  be  free  from  open  flame  or  heat.  A  waste  can  and  chemical 
extinguisher  should  be  provided  therein.  Observe  if  engine  is  an  approved 
type. 

(b)  If  gas  bags  are  used  for  gas  engines,  they  must  be  inclosed  in  a  substan- 
tial gas-tight  metal  drum,  vented  to  the  outer  air  through  a  pipe  used  for  no 
other  purpose. 

(c)  Regulators  should  be  so  designed  as  to  prevent  the  flow  of  gas  Into  room 
in  case  the  engine  shuts  down  from  any  cause.  Pressure  regulators  should  be 
of  approved  construction.  If  a  pulsating  gasometer  is  used,  a  valve  should  be 
located  on  pipe  to  the  same,  and  be  accessible. 

(d)  Note  if  piping  is  properly  installed  and  allowances  are  made  for  expan- 
sion and  contraction,  jarring  and  vibration. 

(e)  Careful  examination  of  exhaust  pots  should  be  made.  See  that  they  are 
placed  on  firm  foundation  and  at  least  12  inches  from  woodwork  or  combustible 
material. 

(/)  Exhaust  pipe,  whether  direct  from  engine  or  from  mufflers,  should,  where 
practicable,  be  carried  above  the  roof  of  the  building  in  which  the  engine  is  con- 
tained, and  above  adjoining  buildings.  When  buildings  are  too  high  to  make 
this  practicable,  the  pipe  should  end  at  least  10  feet  from  any  wall  opening. 

No  exhaust  pipe  should  be  within  9  inches  of  any  vs^oodwork  or  any  wooden 
lath  and  plaster  partition  or  ceiling. 

Where  exhaust  pipes  pass  through  combustible  partitions,  they  should  be 
guarded  by  galvanized  iron  ventilated  thimbles  at  least  12  inches  larger  in 
diameter  than  the  pipes,  or  by  galvanized  iron  thimbles  built  in  at  least  S 
inches  of  brickwork  or  other  incombustible  material.  They  should  not,  under 
any  circumstances,  be  connected  into  chimneys  or  flues,  except  that  the  pipe 
may  pass  up  in  flues  used  for  no  other  purpose.  No  exhaust  pipe  should  pass 
through  any  floor,  nor  through  a  roof  having  wooden  framework  or  covering 
without  special  insulation  and  ventilated  thimble. 

Note. — This  pipe  is  liable  to  become  very  hot  and  should  have  additional  pro- 
tection whei'e  dust  or  inflammable  flyings  are  present. 

(g)  Hot  tube  ignition  is  hazardous.    Electric  ignition  only  should  be  used. 

{h)  Note  if  gasoline  feed  cup  is  rigidly  secured  to  engine,  and  is  in  proper 
order  and  properly  operating. 

(<)  Water  pockets  in  exhaust  pipes  should  be  provided  with  suitable  nieuus 
for  drainage. 


FIEE  PROTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  81 

(/)  Due  consideration  should  be  given  the  cleaning  of  the  cylinders,  valves. 
and  exhaust  pipe,  as  often  as  the  quality  of  the  fuel  may  necessitate. 

(A)  Observe  the  location  of  gasoline  supply  tank.  This  should  be  buried,  as 
per  published  standard. 

( I )  Note  if  openings  for  pipes  through  outside  walls  are  securely  cemented 
and  made  water,  gas,  and  oil  tight. 

im)   Observe  if  fill  and  vent  pipes  are  properly  installed. 

(n)  Observe  if  gasoline  feed  pump  Is  properly  installed  and  in  proper  work- 
ing order,  and  provided  with  check  valves. 

(o)  In  no  event  should  supply  tanks  of  gasoline  be  erected  on  the  walls  of  the 
building.    Gravity  feed  is  hazardous,  regardless  of  location  of  supply  tank. 

ilj)  Portable  gasoline  engines  should  comply  in  all  particulars  with  standard 
••egulations.  Gasoline  tank  should  be  filled  during  daylight  hours  only,  and 
while  the  engine  is  not  in  operation.  Tanks  should  be  filled  by  means  of  safety 
cans  from  properly  installed  gasoline  supply  tank. 


VENTILATING  SYSTEMS  FROM  KITCHENS,  AND  SETTING  OF 

RANGES. 

Numerous  fires  occur  in  hotels,  restaurants,  dwellings,  etc.,  due  to  poorly 
constructed  kitchen  ventilating  systems,  defective  setting  of  cooking  ranges, 
etc. ;  the  general  hazard  in  connection  with  which  should  receive  special  at- 
tention and  be  guarded  against. 

Walls,  floors,  and  ceilings  of  kitchens  should  preferably  be  built  of  fire-resist- 
ing materials  when  ranges  can  be  set  to  wall  and  floor  without  the  special 
prerautions  described  herein.  This  is  especially  recommended  for  hotels,  etc.. 
where  ranges  having  two  or  more  fire  boxes  are  used. 

Ranges. 

A  kitchea  range  shall  not  be  placed  less  than  3  feet  from  any  woodwork  or 
conihu.stible  material  unless  protection  by  metal  shields  is  afforded,  in  which 
ca.se  the  distance  shall  be  not  less  than  18  inches ;  the  metal  to  be  so  attached 
as  to  leave  an  air  space  between  it  and  the  combustible  material  and  to  extend 
at  least  3  feet  above  top  of  range. 

Ranges  allowing  an  air  space  of  less  than  4  inches  between  ash  box  and 
floor  should  be  located  on  floors  of  flre-resisting  construction  such  as  brick, 
tile,  or  concrete;  if  set  over  combustible  flooring  a  hearth  shall  be  provided, 
constructed  of  4-inch  hollow  tile  or  two  courses  of  brick  placed  on  sheet  metal 
or  one-eighth  inch  asbestos  Ijoard,  the  lower  course  of  brick  to  be  laid  so  as  to 
permit  circulation  of  air  between  the  bricks.  The  brick  or  terra-cotta  work  shall 
extend  12  Inches  beyond  the  range  at  sides  and  rear  and  24  inches  in  front. 

Ranges  allowing  an  air  space  of  more  than  4  inches  between  ash  box  and 
floor,  if  placed  over  combustible  flooring,  siiould  be  set  upon  sheet  metal  or  its 
e<iuivalent ;  the  metal  to  extend  12  Indies  beyond  range  at  sides  and  rear  and 
24  inches  In  front. 

Ranges  having  2  fire  boxes  or  more  should  be  Installed  on  combustible 
floors  only  as  prescribed  for  ranges  having  an  air  space  less  than  4  Inches  be- 
tween the  bottom  of  ash  box  and  floor  line. 

Gas  connections  to  ranges  or  hot  plates  must  be  by  metal  pipe — flexible  tubing 
should  nevei  be  used. 

Smokepipes. 

Smokeplpes  must  be  securely  fastened  to  range,  be  constructed  of  substantial 
metal  and  be  spark  tiglit  and  not  placed  near  any  woodwork  unless  protection 
8450.'5°— 19 6 


82  FIRE   PROTECTION   FOB   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

of  sheet  metal  with  an  air  space  Is  provided;  should  run  directly  to  standard 
brick  chimney,  be  firmly  held  in  place  by  plaster  and  metal  thimble  and  where 
it  i)Ossibly  can  be  avoided  they  should  not  pass  through  floors,  attics,  or  unused 
rooms  and  never  through  closets  or  other  concealed  spaces. 

Where  the  pipes  must  necessarily  pass  thi-ough  lath  and  plaster  or  wood  par- 
titions and  ceilings  or  combustible  roofs,  they  must  be  guarded  by  galvanized 
iron  ventilating  collars  at  least  one  and  a  half  times  the  diameter  of  pipes,  or 
a  concrete  panel  at  least  18  inches  square  (depending  on  spacing  of  studding 
and  diameter  of  pipe)  and  casing  the  smokepipe  so  as  to  leave  a  space  of  not 
less  than  1  inch  around  it. 

Smokepipes  shall  not  be  permitted  Inside  of  vent  flues  from  ranges. 

Range  Hoods. 

All  large  ranges  should  be  provided  with  hoods,  constructed  of  substantial 
metal  and  large  enough  to  collect  all  greasy  vapors.  The  hood  should  preferably 
be  placed  at  least  9  inches  below  any  wooden  or  other  combustible  ceiling. 

Ventilating  Pipes  Conducting  Greasy  Vapobs. 

Should  be  constructed  of  a  proper  gauge  metal  to  suit  their  size  and  conditions 
of  surrounding,  so  substantially  built  that  they  may  burn  out  without  damage 
to  the  building  or  building  contents.  The  pipes  should  be  securely  fastened 
to  the  top  of  range  hood  with  metal  flange  sleeve  securely  riveted  or  bolted  to 
both  pipe  and  hood. 

Ventilating  pipes  should  not  pass  through  closets  or  concealed  spaces. 

A  ventilating  pipe  connected  with  a  hood  over  a  range  shall  be  an  indi- 
vidual pipe,  having  no  connection  with  any  other  pipe,  and  shall  not  be  run 
near  any  woodwork  or  combustible  material.  The  pipe  shall  ^o  either  outside 
of  the  building,  to  be  securely  fastened  to  the  outside  wall,  with  a  clearance 
of  at  least  4  inches  therefrom,  and  discharge  at  least  4  feet  above  the  roof,  or 
be  connected  with  a  suitable  brick  flue  lined  with  burnt  clay,  which  shall  be 
used  exclusively  for  ventilating  pipe  of  the  range. 

Ventilating  pipe,  where  passing  through  combustible  roofs,  ceilings,  parti- 
tions, etc.,  shall  be  installed  in  accordance  with  requirements  for  smoke- 
pipes. 

The  pipe  must  be  large  enough  to  promptly  and  adequately  take  care  of 
vapors  and  fumes ;  its  diameter  should  be  governed  by  the  area  of  kitchen  and 
change  of  air  required,  but  in  no  case  shall  it  be  less  than  8  inches  its  entire 
length. 

Horizontal  ventilating  pipes  for  ranges  in  kitchens  should  be  avoided  as  much 
as  possible 

Fans. 

Fans  and  power  apparatus  in  connection  with  ventilation  should  be  so 
located  that  Burroundings  are  incombustible  and  should  have  ventilation  to 
the  open  air. 


ELECTRICITY  AS  A  FIRE  DANGER  AND  HAZARDS  OF  ELECTRIC 

WIRING. 

Numerous  fire  losses  occur  through  electrical  causes.  It  should  be  the  pur- 
pose of  inspectors  to  draw  more  closely  to  the  attention  of  electricians  or 
mechanical  superintendents  having  in  charge  the  lighting,  heating,  and  power 
of  properties,  the  probably  well-known  but  at  the  same  time  frequently  over- 
looked defects  which  produce  fire  hazards. 


FIKE   PBOTECTION   FOB   RAILROAD  PBOPERTTES.  83 

Electrical  causes  of  fires  may  be  classed  as  "  avoidable "  and  "  Inherent ;" 
the  first  class  covering  such  cases  where  there  is  no  element  which  can  not  be 
controlled ;  the  second  class  may  or  may  not  be  anticipated  and  can  not  be  en- 
tirely removed.  The  elements  of  danger  introducing  "  avoidable  hazards  "  may 
be  eliminated  by  proper  design,  construction,  and  installation.  Some  of  the 
defects  in  electrical  equipment,  or  general  causes  of  electrical  fires,  might  be 
mentioned  as  follows: 

Poorly  designed  fittings  with  the  use  of  improper  materials. 
Overloading  of  mains  and  branch  circuits. 

The  misuse  of  apparatus  and  materials.  Including  use  of  switches,  fuse 
blocks,  sockets,  wire  cord,  and  other  fittings  and  materials  for  carrying 
current  in  excess  of  rated  capacity ;  broken  or  defective  switches. 
Poor  workmanship  producing  dangerous  conditions,  including  slack  wires, 
poor  arrangement,  splices  not  well  made,  wires  poorly  supported  or  run 
too  close  to  pipes  or  other  metal  work  without  providing  proper  pro- 
tection ;  careless  connection  of  conductors  to  switches,  etc.,  and  skinning 
and  cleaning  of  wires;  cutting  flexible  tubing  too  short  at  outlets, 
kinking  and  injuring  wires  In  handling,  loose  screws  In  fittings,  etc. 
Wires  in  concealed  spaces  without  proper  protection,  such  as  in  partitions 

and  division  walls. 
Wires  wrapped  around  nails  or  hooks  and  not  rigidly  supported  by  proper 

Insulators. 
Wires  carried  through  woodwork  bunched  without  protection. 
Placing  of  wires  in  molding  In  damp  and  wet  places ;  Installation  of  com- 
bination fixtures  without  Insulating  joints. 
Incandescent  electric  lights  in  contact  with  combustible  material. 
The  use  of  link  fuse  cut-outs  not  placed  in  fire-reslstlng  cabinets;  fre- 
quently installed  in  closets,  attics,  and  other  Inaccessible  places,  this 
class  of  fuse  being  faulty  in  that  they  expose  surrounding  material  to 
arcing  and  molten  fuse  metal. 
Service  wires  not  provided  with  approved  switch  and  cut-out  where  they 

enter  buildings. 
The  very  common  practice  of  using  ordinary  flexible  cord  for  portable  use, 
thus  exposing  it  to  abrasion. 
We  might  summarize  many  other  causes  of  electrical  fires,  but  the  above  are 
picked  out  as  Indicating  numerous  defects  met  with  In  practice. 

The  "National  Electrical  Code"  is  recognized  as  giving  the  proper  roles  for 
safety  of  installations,  supplementing  which  is  the  use  of  approved  fittings  only 
for  satisfactory  work.  While  It  would  require  too  much  detail  to  even  outline 
the  rules,  the  following  general  suggestions  and  cautions  are  made: 

(1)  Wirirtfj. — Afford  complete  protection  against  overloads  or  short  circuits. 
All  high-potential  wires  to  be  placed  in  plain  sight  and  rigidly  supported ;  pro- 
tected on  side  walls  from  mechanical  injury  by  substantial  boxing.  Wires 
passing  through  floors,  walls,  or  partitions  to  be  properly  protected  by  insulat- 
ing tubes,  and  where  crossing  open  expo.sed  joists,  to  be  incased  In  approved 
metal  conduit,  molding,  or  attached  to  approved  porcelain  supports.  Wires 
liable  to  niechaniruj  injury  to  be  incased  In  approved  metal  conduit  or  boxed  In; 
where  pa.sslng  through  or  over  shelving  shoulil  be  placed  In  metal  conduit  or 
molding  or  removed  to  a  location  where  there  will  be  no  liability  to  mechanical 
Injury ;  to  be  properly  protected  by  continuous  and  firmly  fixed  nonconductor 
where  paralleling  or  where  liable  to  come  In  contact  with  metal  pipe  or  other 
conducting  materials;  should  be  run  over  rather  than  under  pipes  likely  to 
gather  moisture  or  leak  ;  where  In  attics  to  bo  protected  from  nifM^banlral  In- 
jury and  where  entering  buildings  to  have  drip  loops.      It  is  Important  that  all 


84  FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR  RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

discarded  wiring  and  fittings  sliould  be  removed ;  all  joints  to  be  spliced  or 
made  so  as  to  be  both  mechanically  and  electrically  secure  without  soldering, 
the  joints  to  be  soldered  and  covered  with  an  insulation  equal  to  that  of  the 
conductors ;  service  wires  to  be  provided  with  approved  switch  and  cut-out 
where  the  service  enters,  arranged  to  cut  off  current  from  all  devices,  including 
meters. 

(2)  Conduit. — Concealed  wires  should  be  placed  in  approved  metal  conduit 
or  armored  cable  when  it  is  impracticable  to  properly  support  them  on  insula- 
tors ;  electric  light  and  power  wires  in  elevator  shafts  to  be  placed  in  such  conduit 
or  cable;  conduit  should  be  continuous  fr6m  outlet  to  outlet  or  to  junction 
boxes  and  be  securely  fastened  in  same.  Signal  wires  should  not  be  placed  in 
the  same  conduit  with  light  and  power  wires. 

(3)  Lamps. — Incandescent  lamps  should  be  well  supported  and  where  liable 
to  mechanical  injury  be  equipped  with  substantial  wire  guards  and  no  com- 
bustible lamp  shades  permitted  to  be  used  thereon.  Arc  lamps  located  where 
they  are  exposed  to  flyings  or  small  particles  of  inflammable  materials  should 
have  carbons  inclosed  completely  iu  tight  globes;  or  where  located  near  in- 
flammable material  should  have  wire  netting  over  globes  and  be  equipped  with 
approved  sparli  arresters.  For  portable  incandescent  lamps,  reinforced  wiring 
or  cable,  designed  to  withstand  such  service,  to  be  used,  and  the  lamps  be 
protected  by  wire  L;uards.  Incandescent  lamps  in  rooms  where  there  are  in- 
flammable gases  should  be  provided  with  vapor-proof  globes  and  lieyless 
sockets. 

(4)  Flexible  cords  should  not  be  hung  on  nails,  metal  worli  or  stapled  to 
woodwork,  etc. ;  should  not  be  used  as  support  for  electric  flxtures,  or  be  used 
where  exposed  to  dampness  and  should  be  protected,  if  in  contact  with  metal, 
by  approved  flexible  tubing. 

(5)  Cut-outs  should  be  located  as  to  be  readily  accessible,  not  exposed  to 
inflammable  gases,  where  located  in  damp  places  to  be  inclosed  in  appro\ed 
fire  and  moisture  proof  cabinet,  and  where  in  vicinity  of  readily  combustible 
materials,  to  be  removed  or  inclosed  in  approved  cabinet.  The  use  of  open 
link  cut-outs  discouraged ;  where  used,  to  be  inclosed  in  approved  fireproof 
cabinets.  Cabinets  sliould  be  substantially  constructed  of  metal  or  well-sea- 
soned wood  and  lined  with  noncombustible  insulating  material  such  as  slate, 
marble,  or  asbestos  board ;  door  to  be  securely  hung  and  arranged  to  be  kept 
closed,  by  strong  hook  or  catch. 

(6)  Heating  devices  should  never  be  concealed  but  at  all  times  be  in  plain 
sight.  Circuits  should  be  equipped  with  a  pilot  lamp  placed  so  that  it  will  be 
lighted  when  the  current  is  on  the  heating  apparatus.  Electric  irons  should 
be  provided  with  approved  stands  to  hold  them.  Electric  heating  apparatus 
should  be  placed  in  a  safe  location  and  carefully  isolated  or  protected  from 
combustible  material. 

(7)  Apporaf MS.— Generators  and  motors  should  be  placed  in  a  dry  locati6n 
and  should  not  be  located  in  rooms  where  hazardous  processes  are  carried  on 
or  where  there  are  inflammable  gases  or  flyings  of  combustible  materials, 
unless  in  the  latter  case,  the  motors  are  of  the  inclosed  type  or  otherwise 
protected. 

Rheostats  should  be  located  at  least  1  foot  from  combustible  material  or 
separated  by  being  mounted  on  bases  of  noncombustible,  nonabsorptlve  in- 
sulating material,  such  as  slate  or  marble,  and  securely  mounted  thereon. 
All  switches  and  rheostats  used  in  connection  with  electric  motors  to  be  lo- 
cated within  sight  of  and  accessible  to  motor.  Base  frames  of  generators  and 
motors  operating  at  550  volts  or  less  should  be  properly  insulated  from  ground 
and  when  above  that  voltage  properly  grounded.     Electric  apparatus  Bhould 


PTEE   PROTECTION   FOH  RAILEOAD  PROPERTIES.  85 

be  properly  protected  by  lightning  arresters ;  all  switch-boards  to  be  made  of 
noncombustlble  material  such  as  slate  or  marble  and  be  placed  in  dry  location. 
Service  switches  to  be  placed  on  service  wires  in  a  readily  accessible  place,  as 
near  as  possible  to  the  point  where  the  wires  enter  buildings  and  arranged 
to  cut  off  current  from  all  apparatus,  including  meters ;  knife  switches  to  be 
so  placed  that  they  will  tend  to  open  by  gravity.  All  switches  subject  to  inflam- 
mable flyings  and  those  subject  to  mechanial  injury  should  be  placed  in  fireproof 
and  dust-proof  cabinets,  and  those  located  in  damp  places  should  be  placed  in 
moisture-proof  cabinets. 

Transformers  must  not  be  placed  inside  of  any  building  excepting  central 
stations  and  substations  without  special  permission ;  those  located  inside  power 
stations  should  be  arranged  in  an  approved  manner ;  and  if  installed  in  other 
buildings  to  be  in  noncombustlble  rooms.  Oil-cooled  transformers  should  be 
filled  and  tested  in  separate  noncombustlble  rooms  and  the  temperature  of  the 
oil  should  not  be  raised  by  means  of  a  fire  built  under  the  tanks,  but  preferably 
by  steam  coils. 

(8)  In  general. — In  all  electric  work,  conductors,  however  well  insulated,  should 
always  be  treated  as  bare  and  alive,  to  the  end  that  under  no  conditions,  existing 
or  likely  to  exist,  can  a  ground  or  short  circuit  occur,  and  so  that  all  leakage 
from  conductor  to  conductor,  or  between  conductor  and  ground,  may  be  reduced 
to  the  minimum. 

In  all  wiring,  special  attention  should  be  paid  to  the  mechanical  execution 
of  the  work.  Careful  and  neat  running,  connecting,  soldering,  taping  of  con- 
ductors, and  securing  and  attaching  of  fittings,  are  specially  conducive  to  se- 
curity and  eflSciency. 

In  laying  out  an  Installation,  except  for  constant  current  systems,  every 
reasonable  effort  should  be  made  to  secure  distribution  centers  located  In  easily 
accessible  places,  at  which  points  the  cut-outs  and  switches  controlling  the 
several  branch  circuits  can  be  grouped  for  convenience  and  safety  of  operation. 
The  load  should  be  divided  as  evenly  as  possible  among  the  branches,  and  all 
complicated  and  unnece.ssary  wiring  avoided. 

Architects  and  engineers  are  urged,  when  drawing  plans  and  specifications, 
to  make  provision  for  the  channeling  and  pocketing  of  buildings  for  electric 
light  and  power  wires,  and  also  for  telephone,  district  messenger,  and  other 
signaling  sy.'<tem  wiring. 

When  buildings  are  unoccupied  or  operations  have  ceased,  all  electric  cur- 
rent shoulfl  be  cut  off  at  main  switches. 

The  problem  of  fighting  fires  in  and  about  electrical  apparatus  is  a  serious 
one  owing  to  the  fact  that  water,  if  used,  is  liable  to  damage  insulation  and 
cause  corrosion  of  the  metal  parts,  and  then  again  there  is  danger  to  life 
In  handling  ordinary  streams  in  contact  with  high  voltages.  Carbon  tetra- 
chloride extinguishers  are  effective  In  extinguishing  electric  arcs  of  considerable 
capacity. 

A  copy  of  the  latest  edition  of  the  "  National  Electrical  Code  "  should  be  placed 
in  the  hands  of  ail  electrical  superintendents  and  foremen. 


INSTALLATION  AND  CARE  OF  KEROSENE-OIL  LAMPS. 

The  small  railroad  stations  In  towns  and  villages,  signal  towers,  pumping 
stations,  and  other  buildings  In  Isolated  locations  continue  to  be  very  generally 
lighted  by  kerosene-oil  liimjis.  This  form  of  lighting  must  be  considered  as 
more  hazardous  than  electricity  or  gas,  aa  in  addition  to  an  open  flame,  the  oil. 


86         FIRE  PEOTECTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

In  case  of  fire,  immediately  contributes  inflammable  liquid,  wliich  aids  In  the 
spread  of  flames,  and  under  certain  conditions  an  explosion  occurs.  This  form 
of  lighting  carries  with  it  both  a  fire  and  explosion  hazard. 

Where  possible,  electric  or  gas  lighting  systems  should  be  used  instead  of 
oil  of  any  nature. 

Good  maintenance  and  care  are  necessary  at  all  times  In  order  to  prevent 
fires  originating  from  explosion  of  lamps,  lamps  upset,  lamps  turned  too  high, 
Ignition  of  inflammable  material  therefrom;  etc.  Bracket  lamps  should  always 
be  rigid ;  swinging  lamps  are  hazardous. 

The  National  Fire  Protection  Association  recommend  the  following  precau- 
tions of  safety,  which  should  receive  attention : 

The  bowl  or  receptacle  containing  oil  should  not  be  of  glass  or  of  breakable 
material,  but  be  constituted  of  substantial  metal. 

Receptacles  containing  oil  should  never  be  filled  to  an  overflow  point,  but 
filled  to  a  point  that  will  permit  an  &ir  space  above  the  oil.  Receptacles  should 
not  be  permitted  to  become  dry  or  empty,  and  should  be  filled  at  regular  in- 
tervals.   Lamps  used  regularly  should  receive  daily  examination. 

Lamps  should  not  be  filled  while  burning.  Cleaning  cloths  and  waste  should 
be  kept  in  approved  metal  waste  can.  Old  wicks,  when  removed,  should  be 
burned  immediately. 

All  portable  lamps  should  be  so  designed  that  they  may  not  be  readily  upset 
or  overturned. 

Suspended  lamps  should  preferably  be  securely  fastened  to  rigid  fixtures; 
should  be  free  from  contact  with  partitions,  shelving,  ceiling,  and  combustible 
material.  Proper  shields  should  be  provided  overhead  when  lamps  are  placed 
within  24  inches  of  combustible  ceiling  or  material  above. 

Lamps  should  not  be  permitted  to  burn  indefinitely  in  dark  cellars,  area  ways, 
halls,  attics,  or  at  places  which  are  not  constantly  under  supervision. 

Those  in  charge  of  property  should  not  leave  premises  unoccupied  indefinitely 
and  permit  lights  to  burn  during  their  absence.  This  is  a  common  cause  of 
fire. 

Lamps  should  not  be  suspended  nor  placed  where  there  is  a  strong  or  con- 
tinuous draft,  unless  properly  shielded. 

Burners  must  be  securely  fastened  to  oil  receptacle  and  should  be  kept  clean 
and  properly  adjusted  at  all  times.  See  that  small  vent  pipe  through  burner  is 
kept  clean. 

Wicks  should  never  be  permitted  to  become  so  short  as  to  fail  to  readily  ab- 
sorb oil  from  receptacles.  When  receptacles  are  filled,  wicks  should  be  care- 
fully examined,  and  immediately  replaced  if  too  short.  Wicks  must  be  kept 
evenly  trimmed  and  must  be  of  proper  width  to  fit  burner.  Narrow  wicks  are 
dangerous.  Wicks  must  be  kept  free  from  crusty  accumulation  of  carbon  de- 
posits, and  must  not  be  allowed  to  become  shreddy  or  ragged. 

Inflammable  shades  should  never  be  used,  nor  should  chandeliers  or  fixtures 
be  decorated  with  combustible  material  for  artistic  purposes  or  otherwise. 
This  practice  in  particular  should  be  condemned. 

Chimneys  should  be  securely  adjusted  to  burner  frames.  Cracked  chimneys 
should  irnmediately  be  replaced  with  new  ones.  Do  not  glue  paper  or  cloth 
over  cracks  of  chimneys. 

Danger  in  the  Use  of  Kerosene  for  Heat  and  Light. 

The  use  of  kerosene  or  "  coal  oil  "  for  fuel  in  various  classes  of  buildings  is 
•  regarded  as  much  more  hazardous  than  the  use  of  ordinary  fuel,  such  as  coal. 
The  use  of  this  oil  for  lighting  is  also  more  hazardous  than  electric  or  gas 
light.  Wherever  such  kerosene  oil  equipments  are  necessary,  special  precautions 
should  be  observed. 

Tliere  are  many  hazards  in  common  with  the  use  of  both  oil  stoves  and 
lamps,  their  maintenance  and  care,  and  the  storage  of  oils,  etc.,  and  precautions 
by  which  many  hazards  may.  be  eliminated  are  given  below : 


I 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOE   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  87 

BTOBAGE  OF   CANS   AND   BABRELS   OF   OIL. 

All  oil  cans  should  be  kept  In  metal  or  metal-lined  boxes  or  closets. 

A  can  or  barrel  of  oil  should  never  be  kept  in  the  same  room  with  a  furnace, 
stove,  or  fire  of  any  kind,  but  preferably  outside  of  buildings.  Partly  filled  or 
empty  oil  cans  and  oil  barrels  nearly  always  contain  an  explosive  vapor,  espe- 
cially after  standing  in  a  warm  place  or  in  the  sun.  Special  attention  should-  be 
given  to  supposedly  empty  oil  barrels  and  receptacles  to  see  that  they  are  well 
drained  and  kept  in  a  cool  place,  preferably  away  from  all  buildings,  and  that 
their  filling  and  vent  holes  are  properly  closed. 

DISPOSAL  OF    WASTE   AI^D  BAQS. 

Rags  or  waste  used  for  wiping  oil  stoves  should  be  Immediately  removed 
from  the  buildings  and  burned ;  or  deposited  in  approved  self-closing  metal 
waste  cans,  to  be  emptied  daily. 

FTLLINO. 

Stoves  and  lamps  should  be  filled  only  by  daylight,  and  never  while  burning 
or  near  a  fire. 

Filling  and  trimming  should  be  done  on  a  metal  or  metal-covered  shelf. 

Do  not  smoke  while  filling  stoves  or  lamps. 

Do  not  fill  to  overflow  point,  but  permit  an  air  space  above  oil. 

Do  not  allow  oil  stoves  or  lamps  to  burn  until  oil  receptacles  are  empty.  Ex- 
cess accumulation  of  dangerous  vapors  may  result. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

T/ie  follovying  special  precautions  should  be  observed  in  use  of  kerosene 
ttoves: 

Do  not  carry  stoves  about  while  lighted,  or  place  lighted  stoves  in  passage- 
ways where  they  are  liable  to  be  upsot.  The.  portableness  of  oil  stoves  con- 
stitutes one  of  their  hazards.  A  coal  stove,  when  properly  Installed,  Is  more 
permanently  and  firmly  set  and   the  surroundings  more  carefully   guarded. 

Do  not  place  oil  stoves  under  wood  shelves,  desks,  tables,  etc. 

Keep  all  papers  from  floor  and  from  hanging  over  or  about  stoves. 

The  following  precautions  should  be  observed  in  use  of  kerosene  lamps: 

Lamps  should  be  u.sed  only  in  rigid  fixtures,  free  from  danger  of  contact  with 
inflammable  ujaterial. 

Do  not  hang  papers  over  or  near  lamps. 


DANGERS  OF  GASOLINE. 

FHtalItIe.s  on  account  of  gasoline  fires  are  on  the  increase  and,  !n  harmony 
Willi  ••xpcrioiiccs  rt'Si)ecting  huinaii  iiidifrerencc,  the  incrcasini;  use  of  vusuliiic 
and  other  liquids  which  are  dangerous  because  of  their  ready  inflauuuubility. 
will  pntbiibly  increase  the  number  of  accidents  which  cau.se  lo.ss  of  life  as 
well  .MS  great  damage  to  projierty. 

A  feature,  however,  which  Ks  not  readily  comprehended  and  which  is  a  .serious 
source  of  danger  is  the  fact  that  a  mixture  of  the  gasoline  vapor  and  air  is 
highly  explosive  under  certain  conditions. 

When  we  hear  of  a  dlsnstrous  gasoline  explosion  we  mny  be  sure  that  It 
resulted  from  the  mixing  of  the  vnpor  from  the  gasoline  with  air  in  the  pro- 
portion necessary  to  form  an  explosive  mixture. 


88  FIRE   PROTECTTON    FOR    RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

The  beliavior  of  illuminating  gas.  which  burns  quietly  when  liberated  alone, 
but  explodes  when  a  mixture  with  air  is  ignited,  is  quite  analogous.  The  public 
has  been  slow  to  appreciate  these  distinctions,  and  hence  they  deserve  emphasis. 
Again  the  public  can  not  nialie  distinctions  between  the  explosive  vapor  and 
the  purely  combustible  vapor;  therefore  certain  precautions  must  be  taken  in 
handling  this  hazardous  fluid. 

At  ordinary  temperatures  air  will  hold  from  5  to  28  per  cent  of  gasoline 
vapor.  As  gasoline  vapor  is  about  three  times  as  heavy  as  air,  in  a  room 
containing  a  mixture  of  the  vapor  with  air,  the  vapor  Is  fonnd  in  largest 
proportion  near  the  floor.  According  to  experts  there  Is  needed  only  a  small 
proportion  of  gasoline  vapor  to  render  air  explosive — 1.4  cubic  feet  of  vapor  to 
97.5  cubic  feet  of  air.  One  gallon  of  gasoline,  under  ideal  conditions,  can  render 
2,100  cubic  feet  of  air  explosive. 

A  dangerous  feature  of  gasoline  vapor  is  that  it  may  travel  a  considerable 
distance  from  the  gasoline  and  there  be  ignited,  the  flash  traveling  back  to  the 
container  of  the  liquid  and  causing  a  roaring  fire  in  a  few  seconds. 

When  gasoline  is  passed  from  one  metallic  vessel  into  another,  especially 
through  a  chamois-skin  strainer,  frictional  electricity  is  apt  to  be  generated, 
which  under  certain  conditions  jumps  in  the  form  of  a  spark  which  may  ignite 
the  gasoline  vapor  and  cause  an  explosion.  Chamois-skin  strainers  should  not 
be  used.     Use  only  wire-gauze  strainers  and  see  that  funnels  are  so  equipped. 

Don't  store  gasoline  or  other  highly  volatile  oils  in  large  or  small  quantities 
where  other  oils,  paints,  etc.,  are  stored,  or  use  or  handle  in  valtiable  proper- 
ties or  where  they  would  endanger  life  or  property  of  any  kmd.  Store  in  a 
specially  constructed  container  or  building  built  on  approt^ed  lines  and  in  an 
isolated  location. 

Don't  use  gasoline  in  processes  where  it  can  be  avoided  and  where  a  less 
dangerous  substitute  can  be  used  as  advantageously  and  economically. 

Don't  permit  or  use  open  lights  or  flames  at  or  near  places  lohere  gasoline 
and  other  highly  dangerous  and  inflammable  liquids  are  used  or  stored.  Post 
signs  in  such  locations,  giving  this  rule. 

Have  tJiese  dangerous  liquids  handled  only  by  experienced  men  who  realize 
the  dangers,  and  use  only  from  approved  "  safety  cans." 

Storage  and  Handling  of  Empty  Gasoline  Barbels. 

These  barrels  are  a  source  of  danger  and  should  receive  greater  care. 

Drain  the  barrels  thoroughly  and  allow  all  accumulated  vapor  to  escape; 
remembering  that  gasoline  vapor  is  heavier  than  air.  Also  store  the  barrels 
in  a  cool  or  shady  place. 

Keep  their  filling  or  vent  holes  properly  closed. 

Before  empty  barrels  or  receptacles  are  transported,  Interstate  Commerce 
Commission  Regulation  No.  1895-A,  reading  as  follows,  should  be  observed: 

Empty  barrels,  kegs,  or  drums  previously  used  for  the  shipment  of  an  in- 
flammable or  corrosive  liquid,  must  have  their  filling  and  vent  holes  properly 
closed.  They  should  be  loaded  in  open  or  stock  cars  when  practicable.  Labels 
are  not  required  on  such  packages,  and  cars  should  not  be  placarded,  but  lighted 
lanterns  or  other  open-flame  lights  should  be  kept  away. 


LACQUERING  AND  BUFFING. 

Lacquers,  a  group  of  varnishes,  used  to  prevent  the  polished  surfaces  of 
metals  from  tarnishing,  need  more  than  ordinary  care  in  handling.  Their  use 
is  still  one  of  the  necessary  hazards  of  the  present-day  railroad  car  ahops.  and 


FIRE   PROTECTION    FOR   RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  89 

they  will  continue  to  be  a  fruitful  source  of  fire  until  a  rlull  nr  natural  metal 
finish  Is  favored. 

The  word  "  lacquer  "  In  the  commercial  field  means  that  class  of  spirit  var- 
nishes applied  to  metals  to  give  them  a  thin  transparent  flexible  film  coating. 

Lacquers  are  chiefly  made  with  a  pyroxylin  and  celluloid  base  dissolved  and 
thinned  in  alcohol,  amyl-acetate,  benzene,  etc. ;  with  a  few  exceptions  the  re- 
sulting varnish  is  very  volatile,  has  a  low  flash  point,  and  Its  vapors  take  fire 
at  comparatively  low  temperatures. 

There  are  tvvo  principal  processes  of  applying  lacquer  to  metal  after  It  has 
been  cleaned  by  the  caustic  soda  and  acid  baths ;  first  by  brushing  on ;  second  by 
dipping  the  article  in  a  tank  of  lacquer  or  by  spraying.  In  both  methods  the  wet 
lacquered  article  is  partly  dried  in  sawdust  and  then  further  dried  in  an  oven. 

The  first  method  is  used  in  small  car  shops  where  the  amount  of  material  to 
finish  is  not  large  and  usually  can  be  done  by  one  man.  The  hazard  of  this 
occupation  Is  not  especially  marked  and  can  be  easily  guarded  against  by  hav- 
ing a  metal  cover  for  lacquer  container,  the  immediate  surroundings  incom- 
bustible, electric  illumination,  steam  heating,  and  some  hand  fire-extinguishing 
apparatus. 

The  second  method  is  used  In  large  car  shops  where  a  considerable  amount 
of  work  Is  required;  there  is  a  marked  hazard  in  this  method,  and  many  of  the 
recommendations  given  below  are  requirements  of  National  Board  of  Fire 
Underwriters  as  to  the  best  way  of  safeguarding  against  it. 

The  shop  plant  using  the  dip-tank  process  is  necessarily  a  centralized  one  or 
the  main  plant  of  the  railroad,  and  therefore  very  large  values  in  buildings  and 
contents  and  rolling  equipment  are  involved ;  with  few  exceptions  the  values 
are  concentrated  and  congested.  Pa.st  practice  has  been  to  locate  the  lacquering 
department,  whether  of  the  brushing  on  or  dip-tank  method,  in  a  fenced-off 
corner  of  the  main  paint  shop,  and  in  a  few  instances  bricked-off  room  or  de- 
tached frame  buildings  have  been  provided ;  the  location  of  the  hazard,  how- 
ever, has  been  one  which  invariably  exposed  surrounding  properties. 

The  following  sugge-stions  are  made  primarily  for  the  construction  and  in- 
stallation of  new  lacquering  and  buffing  departments;  all  present  departments, 
however,  should  be  made  to  conform  to  same  as  far  as  possible. 

Location. — The  work  should  be  done  in  a  building  located  In  a  nonexposing 
position  to  all  other  property. 

Construction. — Building  to  be  of  fire- resistive  con.struction,  not  over  two 
sturies  high,  of  small  area  or  siibdlviderl  by  fire  walls  Into  rooms  not  over- 
2.r)00  square  feet  in  area.  Floors  to  drain  to  overflow  into  outside  special 
cistern.  No  oi>enlngs  between  floors.  Stairways  and  elevator  should  he  In- 
stalled outside  and  preferably  In  fireproof  towers. 

Lighting. — Electric  wiring  In  metal  conduit;  Incandescent  lamps  with  vnpnr- 
tight  globes,  keyle>s  .sockets,  and  outside  fuses  and  switches. 

Power. — Steam  or  electric;  when  possible,  shafting  to  be  operated  by  outsiflc 
motors. 

Ve^ntilation. — Room  should  be  well  ventilated  at  top  and  bottom  by  suitable 
screened  openings  and  If  necessiiry  an  exliiiust  fan  sy.stein  should  b«  installed. 
It  Ik  desirable  to  iiave  a  metal  hood  of  larger  area  Mian  dip  tank  suspended 
directly  above  tank  and  terminating  in  a  metal  vent  pipe. 

Hcativg.^Hteam  or  hot  water. 

Tanks. — ^To  be  cojistnutpd  of  steel  or  cast  Iron. 

Covpra.— May  be  eithfji-  hinged  or  sliding  on  tiiicks  and  should  be  nor- 
mally held  open  by  approved  tyites  of  metal  ch.ilus  containing  fusible  links, 
one  such  link  to  be  near  cover  at  tank  and  one  at  Ihc  point  where  chain 
Is  fastened  to  building  wall  or  celling.    Such  covers  may  be  constructed  either 


90  FIKE  PROTECTION   FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

of  metal  or  tongned-aud-grooved  boards  covered  on  all  surfaces  by  lock-jointed 
tin,  and  In  all  cases  such  covers  must  overlap  the  sides  and  ends  of  tanks  at 
least  2  Inches.  All  covers  to  be  so  designed  and  installed  that  operation  vpill 
I  automatic  and  secure  positive  closing  vi^ithout  danger  of  sticking  when  re- 
leased by  the  action  of  heat  on  the  fusible  links  or  by  manual  operation. 
Covers  to  be  closed  and  fit  tight  when  tanks  are  not  in  use. 

Drip  boards. — To  be  of  incombustible  material  and  readily  permit  of  cleaning. 

Agitator. — If  necessary  each  tank  should  be  provided  w^ith  an  agitator. 

Overflow. — Tank  to  have  an  iron  or  steel  overflovsr  pipe  leading  outside  of 
building  to  a  cistern.     Overflow  to  have  a  coarse  strainer  at  tank. 

Drains. — Each  tank  should  preferably  be  provided  with  a  drain  pipe  of  suf- 
ficient size  to  empty  tank  in  about  60  seconds.  Drain  to  be  provided  with  a 
valve  capable  of  being  operated  both  manually  and  automatically.  Drain  pipe 
to  be  connected  directly  or  through  an  overflow  pipe  to  cistern. 

Cistern. — To  be  of  sufficient  size  to  hold  the  aggregate  capacity  of  all  tanks 
emptying  into  it.  To  be  detached  at  least  30  feet  from  any  building  and  located 
in  ground,  or  to  be  so  arranged  that  any  overflow  can  not  endanger  property. 
Overflow  and  drain  pipes  to  terminate  in  bottom  of  cistern  under  water. 

Dry  boxes. — Should  be  constructed  entirely  of  brick,  iron,  asbestos  board,  or 
other  non-combustible  material,  with  no  inflammable  material  therein  and 
Avell  insulated  from  outside  combustible  material.  Large  boxes  should  have 
vents  with  slight  draft  leading  to  the  outside  of  building. 

Heating  dry  boxes. — Steam  heat  only  to  be  used,  with  the  pipes  installed  at 
the  sides  to  prevent  accumulations  of  drip  lacquer  thereon. 

Polishing  and  buffing. — Wheels  using  an  oil  lubricant  create  a  hazard ;  and 
should  be  equipped  with  a  metal  pipe  dust  collecting  system,  discharging  into  an 
outside  metal  dust  box  half  filled  with  water.  The  oily  lint  and  dust  is  liable 
to  spontaneous  ignition,  and  the  polishing  and  bufiing  should  be  done,  if  possible, 
in  a  room  used  for  no  other  purpose. 

Emery  wheels. — Locate  at  a  safe  distance  from  inflammable  liquids. 

Storage  of  materials. — The  main  supply  of  lacquers  to  be  kept  in  a  detached 
building.  All  unused  lacquer  in  the  lacquering  room  should  be  removed  to  this 
building  at  night.    Acids  should  be  stored  away  from  combustible  material. 

Fire  prevention. — Clean  and  remove  all  lint  from  polishing  and  bufling  room 
at  end  of  each  day's  work. 

Prohibit  the  use  of  open  lights  or  allowing  watchmen  taking  in  oil  lantern. 

Interior  fire  protection. — Entire  building  to  be  equipped  with  automatic 
sprinklers,  or  with  a  high  pressure  steam  jet  or  pipe  line  for  flooding  with  steam 
in  case  of  fire ;  operating  valves  to  be  located  outside,  with  signs  conspicuously 
posted  designating  their  use. 

A  few  approved  banc,  chemical  fire  extinguishers  should  be  provided. 

A  large  box  of  sawdust  with  a  shovel  should  be  kept  In  accessible  location 
near  lacquer  dip  tank ;  sawdust  to  be  mixed  with  bicarbonate  of  soda  in  the 
proportion  of  10  pounds  of  soda  to  1  bushel  of  sawdust.  In  event  of  fire  in  dip 
tank  this  mixture  will  float  on  the  burning  liquid,  acting  as  an  extinguishing 
blanket  by  excluding  the  oxygen  of  the  atmosphere. 


PROTECTION  AGAINST  LIGHTNING. 

The  National  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters  publish  suggestions  for  protec- 
tion against  lightning,  amongst  which  are  the  following : 

Lightning  rods  should  have  as  few  joints  as  possible,  these  to  be  mechanically 
and  electrically  secure  and  to  be  protected  from  corrosion.     It  is  essential  that 


FIRE    PEOTECTIOSr    FOE    RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  91 

the  conductors  be  continuous  and.  tlioi-efore,  the  fewer  the  joints  and  the  bet- 
ter these  are  protected  from  corrosion,  the  less  chance  of  crippling  the  protec- 
tion due  to  a  break  in  the  conductors. 

Conductors  never  to  be  insulated  from  structures,  but  to  be  fastened  securely 
In  place,  suitable  allowance  being  made  for  expansion,  by  clamps  of  same 
material  as  conductor,  the  vertical  rods  being  carried  a  sufficient  distance  fr.oni 
the  wall  to  avoid  sharp  bends  around  projecting  masonry  or  brickwork.  In 
all  cases  as  straight  a  run  as  possible  should  be  provided  and  the  conductors 
should  Incline  downward.  The  conductors  should  never  be  run  through 
iron  pipes  and  should  b'»  run  as  far  as  practicable  away  from  Interior 
pipes. 

Protection  against  lightning  is  usually  advisable  on  country  buildings,  on 
isolated  buildings  and  on  all  buildings,  wherever  lornted,  having  elevated 
features  such  as  tall  chimneys,  steeples,  high-peaked  or  gable  roofs,  and  flag- 
poles. 

Since  the  amount  of  protection  which  any  building  should  have  will  depend 
upon  Its  location,  construction,  nature  of  its  occupancy,  and  the  value  of  the 
building  as  compared  with  the  expense  necessary  to  provide  the  protection, 
definite  rules  can  not  be  laid  down  for  the  installation  of  lightning  con- 
ductors. 

Ill  general,  all  metal  buildings,  metal  chinmeys  or  stacks  need  only  to  be 
grounded- 


STORAGE  OF  RECORDS  AND  INCIDENTAL  FIRE  DANGERS. 

The  question  of  storage  of  records  and  files  is  a  serious  one  to  the  chief 
clerks,  agents,  and  ?)thers  in  charge  of  such  matters,  and  also  to  those  in- 
terested in  the  prevention  of  fires.  Lack  of  time  and  space  to  properly  arrange 
the  flies  are  the  two  greatest  obstacles  to  overcome.  It  has  been  found  that  a 
common  practice  is  to  use  attics  and  other  spaces  unfit  for  ofiice  use. 

All  fires  occurring  in  record  rooms  are  due  to  carelessne.ss. 

The  hazards  in  connection  with  storage  of  records  are  caused  principally 
by  the  fact  that  through  lack  of  space  in  many  cases  the  records,  usually  com- 
posed of  tissue  papers  and  other  Inflammable  materials  are  piled  in  a  more 
or  less  disorderly  manner  on  the  floor  and  in  spaces  not  intended  for  their 
reception.  In  smaller  ofilces,  stations,  etc.,  the  entire  clerical  force  has 
ticcess  to  the  files,  and  it  has  been  found,  where  smoking  is  allowed  in  I  he 
offices,  clerks  will  also  carry  their  lighted  pipes,  cigarettes,  etc.,  into  the 
record  room,  or  where  smoking  is  prohibited  in  the  offices,  the  record  room, 
being  In  an  inconspicuous  location,  i.s  made  a  ren(lezv(»ua  for  smokers.  On 
jiccount  of  the  great  Inflammability  of  the  content.s  of  record  rooms,  and  the 
fact  of  their  being  in  more  or  less  concealed  spaces  usually,  this  practice  is 
extremely  hazardous.  A  cigarette  stub  in  a  pile  of  tissue  paper  records  can 
work  a  great  deal  of  havoc  in  a  little  time,  as  has  been  proven  through  ex- 
perience. 

Uecords  and  old  fi!e.<?  are  primarily  meant  for  reference,  and  If  not  ke|''  in 
a  .sy.stematic  and  orderly  manner  It  becomes  extremely  luinl  to  refer  to  lliem. 
For  instance,  It  would  seem  to  be  an  Inipo.sslblllty  to  refer  intelligently  1o 
records  that  are  stored  in  the  coal  bin  and  more  or  less  burled  in  coal,  as 
wa-<  actually  foiiiid  at  one  station.  TIiIh  example  \n  an  extreme  one.  but 
there  are  many  otlier  conuiion  examples  to  be  found  on  many  railroads  wlHie 
it  would  be  nearly  :is  hard  to  find  a  file  in  the  record  ro(.mfci.  It  would  be  uii 
economy  in  ofiice  practice  and  reduce  the  fire  hazard  as  well  to  take  time 
and  space  to  file  old  records  systematically. 


92  PIRE   PEOTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

A  good  practice  found  at  one  office  building  might  economically  be  in- 
augurated In  other  locations.  Outside,  and  a  short  distance  from  this  office, 
a  small  building  has  been  erected  and  fitted  with  shelves,  skylights,  electric 
portable  lights  with  reinforced  cords,  etc.,  and  is  used  for  the  storage  of  all 
records.  It  is  kept  locked,  and  anyone  wishing  to  procure  records  has  to  get 
the  key  from  the  chief  clerk  or  his  assistant.  In  cases  where  such  outside  build- 
ings are  used,  the  building  should  be  of  fire-resistive  construction,  lighted  by  elec- 
tricity, with  all  portable  cords  of  heavy,  reinforced  type,  electric  lamps  pro- 
tected by  wire  cage  guards,  with  shelves  so  arranged  as  to  hold  all  records 
in  such  manner  that  they  can  be  readily  referred  to.  Lights  to  be  controlled 
from  outside  switch  with  outside  pilot  light  to  indicate  when  current  is  on. 
Smoking  should  be  absolutely  prohibited  under  penalty. 

In  large  record  rooms  for  general  offices  it  is  recommended  that  a  custodian 
be  employed  on  duty  in  the  rooms  at  all  times. 

In  all  record  rooms  or  vaults  and  houses,  a  supply  of  2i-gaIlon  chemical 
tire  extinguishers  should  be  conspicuously  located,  and  in  large  record  rooms 
and  buildings,  automatic  sprinkler  systems  and  standpipe  connections  with 
hose,  installed  in  standard  manner,  are  recommended. 

Metal  shelving  for  storage  of  records  fs  preferable. 

Spaces  in  record  rooms,  set  aside  for  purposes  other  than  record  storage 
and  filing,  should  be  prohibited. 

In  smaller  offices  and  stations  where  the  number  and  importance  of  records 
would  not  warrant  an  outside  building  or  a  vault,  a  room  could  be  set  aside 
for  filing  purposes,  with  communications  to  other  rooms  cut  off  except  one 
door,  to  be  kept  locked,  lighted  in  similar  manner  to  vault,  and  one  man  re- 
sponsible for  condition;  where  the  size  of  the  station  does  not  warrant  the 
room,  a  closet  with  shelving  should  be  installed  of  sufficient  size  to  hold  the 
records  in  an  orderly  manner. 

In  view  of  the  difficulty  of  adjusting  losses  by  fire  or  duplicating  records  at 
various  properties  where  the  files  have  been  destroyed,  it  is  recommended  that 
at  all  buildings  where  current  files  are  kept,  particularly  such  as  storehouses, 
office  buildings,  and  shop  buildings,  that  a  vault,  constructed  on  fireproof  lines, 
be  erected  either  In  or  convenient  to  the  building  so  that  all  current  files,  valu- 
able records,  tracings,  drawings,  etc.,  may  be  kept  therein. 

Heating  of  all  record  rooms  and  houses  should  be  by  hot  water  or  steam  sys- 
tems, with  radiators  well  guarded  and  pipes  covered  by  approved  Insulating 
materials.  A  large  fire  in  a  general  office  building  occurred  not  very  long  ago 
from  records  in  contact  with  steam  pipes  igniting. 


SPONTANEOUS  IGNITION. 

The  phenomenon  of  spontaneous  ignition  has  been  the  subject  of  ertiaustive 
study  for  many  years,  and  is  still  one  of  exceeding  interest  from  the  frequency 
with  which  it  occurs,  and  from  the  fact  that  there  is  apparently  bo  little  general 
knowledge  of  the  conditions  favorable  to  its  occurrence.  If  the  origin  of  fire 
is  not  clearly  apparent,  the  cause  is  usually  assigned  to  spontaneous  combus- 
tion, without  any  particular  effort  being  made  to  ascertain  if  this  assumption 
is  correct,  or  it  is  said  to  be  unknown,  while  full  knowledge  of  the  conditions 
existing  prior  to  the  occurrence  would  show  that  very  simple  precautions  would 
probably  have  removed  the  danger. 

In  the  more  hazardous  processes  of  manufacture,  conducted  by  experts,  the 
dangers  are  recognized  and  safeguarded,  but  the  unskilled,  careless,  and  indif- 


FIEF.   PROTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  93 

ferent  are  responsible  for  enormous  losses  that  can.  in  ?reat  measure,  be  easily 
prevented  by  understanding  a  few  simple  principles. 

Spontaneous  ignition  of  vegetable,  animal,  and  metallic  substances  mny  bo 
defined  as  follows : 

Ignition  by  the  intern^il  development  of  heat  toilhout  the  action  of  an 
external  agent. — The  action  is  as  follows :  Porous  substances  absorb  air,  oxida- 
tion raises  the  temperature,  which  in  turn  accelerates  the  oxidation  with  in- 
creasing rapidity  until  fire  ensues.  The  low  conducting  power  of  porous  sub- 
stances greatly  facilitates  combustion  by  preventing  the  dissipation  of  the  heat 
generated. 

"  Oxidation  always  produces  heat,  but  most  frequently  In  such  small  quanti- 
ties that  it  is  imperceptible.  Nevertheless,  however  .slight  the  heat  evolved  in 
the  oxidation  of  a  substance  may  be,  if  confined  it  will  usually  In  time  raise 
the  temperature  of  the  substance  undergoing  oxidation  to  the  point  of  Ignition, 
resulting  in  fire.  Chemically,  therefore,  a  fire  may  be  described  as  oxidation 
at  a  temperature  at  or  above  the  point  of  ignition  of  the  oxidized  substance; 
also  as  a  phenomenon,  due  to  combustion  or  oxidation  of  a  substance,  evolving 
heat  and  light." 

Moisture  is  a  factor  in  nearly  every  known  case  of  spontaneous  ignition. 

Oxygen  is  the  most  widely  diffused  and  important  of  the  elements ;  it  forms 
over  one-fifth  of  the  atmosphere,  eight-ninths  of  all  water,  and  probably  one- 
third  of  tlie  earth's  crust.  It  has  also  the  widest  range  of  affinity  of  known 
substanf-es,  this  action  of  combining  being  known  as  oxidation,  and  by  its 
immediate  agency  combustion  and  life  are  alone  sustained.  Oxygen  is  the 
principal  supporter  of  combu.stion,  end  all  ordinary  combustion  is  the  combi- 
nation of  the  oxygen  of  the  air  with  the  burning  substance. 

Wood  subjected  to  direct  contact  with  fire  is  quickly  consumed,  its  carbon 
and  hydrogen  combine  with  the  oxygen  of  the  air  forming  carbonic-acid  gas, 
water,  and  unconsumed  gases  which  pass  off  in  smoke,  and  there  remains  but 
a  small  quantity  of  ash.  Wood  exposed  to  moisture  In  the  presence  of  air 
decays  or  "  dry  rots,"  which  is  exactly  the  same  process  except  that  the 
combustion  Is  much  slower,  and  a  log  of  wood  may  require  many  years  for 
complete  consumption. 

The  amount  of  heat  generated  Is  precisely  the  same  In  slow  as  in  rapid 
combustion  of  equal  quantities  of  material,  but  in  slow  combustion  it  is 
uiin<;tlceable. 

Another  form  of  slow  combu.stion  Is  the  rusting  of  metals,  principally  iron, 
which  In  the  form  of  fine  borings,  filings,  and  turnings  exposed  to  the  ele- 
ments in  large  quantities  will  cause  a  decided  rise  in  temperature  through 
oxidation. 

Various  8ub«tance.s  have  an  afl^nity  for  oxygen  to  a  greater  or  smaller 
degree,  and  the  chemical  action  is  therefore  more  rapid  In  some  mixtures 
than  In  others. 

No  vegftable  oil  will  cau.se  8i»ontaneou8  Ignition  unless  It  has  the  property 
of  drying  by  reason  of  ab.sorblng  oxygen,  and  no  animal  oil  will  cause  spon- 
taneou.s  ignition  unb.-HS  It  has  the  property  of  becoming  rancid.  The  danger 
of  causing  fire  Is  directly  proportional*'  to  the  degree  that  an  oil  may  have 
either  the  one  or  the  other  of  these  properties. 

Mineral  oils  In  their  liquid  state  have  no  affinity  for  oxjgen  and  are 
therefore  less  hazardous  than  vegetable  oils,  but  it  Is  well  to  hear  in  mind 
thnt  "Oiled  everything  \h  dangerouii,"  uud  that  moisture  promotes  spontaneous 
Iguitioo. 


94  FIRE    PROTECTION    l"OR    RAILROAD    PROPERTIES. 

GUARDING  AND  IDENTIFICATION  AT  LARGE  TERMINALS,  SHOPS, 
PIERS,  AND  STORAGE  WAREHOUSES. 

Where  valiiatious  and  conditions  warrant,  special  guards  should  be  provided 
to  prevent  entrance  of  unauthorized  persons.  When  military  guards  can  not  be 
procured,  special  civilian  armed  guards  should  be  provided. 

Where  practicable,  barbed-wire  fences  or  other  man-tight  Inclosures  should  be 
erected. 

Special  electric  flood  lighting  should  be  provided  at  night  to  illuminat* 
guarded  area. 

No  persons  should  be  allowed  to  secure  admission  to  guarded  Inclosure  except 
upon  presentation  of  proper  pass  credential.  The  use  of  properly  authenticated 
photographic  passes  is  recommended  for  inspectors  and  employees. 


RECOMMENDATIONS  FOR  SAFEGUARDING  THE  FIRE  HAZARD  AT 
TRACK  AND  OVERHEAD  BRIDGES. 

In  view  of  the  importance  of  these  structures  from  an  operating  standpoint 
and  to  prevent  the  interruption  of  traffic  due  to  their  destruction  or  damage  by 
fire,  the  following  recommendations  should  be  complied  with  wherever  practi- 
cable and  when  valuations  and  conditions  warrant: 

Spark  Hazabd. 

Instructions  should  be  issued  and  rigidly  enforced  that  especial  care  should 
be  exercised  to  prevent  sparks  escaping  from  smokestacks  or  hot  coals  from  ash 
pans  of  locomotives  while  crossing  track  bridges  or  passing  under  overhead 
bridges  and  to  prevent  burning  waste  being  thrown  from  locomotives. 

All  Beidges. 

Vegetable  growth  should  be  cleared  away  for  a  distance  of  at  least  26  feet  on 
approaches  and  from  around  combustible  bents. 

FiBE  Equipment. 

Barrels  of  water  should  be  buried  in  the  ground  at  ends  of  structures,  also 
casks  should  be  placed  at  least  every  200  feet  along  structure.  Pails  should 
be  kept  hung  on  or  in  each  cask.  Water  may  be  retarded  from  freezing  by 
addition  of  calcium  chloride  or  common  salt  dissolved  in  each  gallon  of  water. 
See  table,  page  64,  and  notes  on  solutions.  Where  track  bridges  are  of  metal 
construction  fire  equipment  should  be  provided  for  extinguishing  fires  in  wooden 
floor  systems. 

Ceeosoted  Timbeb  Stbuctctbes. 

In  the  case  of  creosoted  timber  trestles  or  creosoted  ties  and  deck  material, 
sandboxes  provided  with  covers,  so  as  to  keep  sand  dry,  should  be  provided. 
Each  sand  box  should  contain  an  old  shovel  for  use  in  throwing  sand  on  a  fire 
while  in  an  incipient  stage.  Water  tends  to  spread  a  fire  in  case  of  creosoted 
material,  while  sand  smothers  it. 


FIEE   PROTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES.  95 

CAR-INSPECTORS'  HOUSES. 

These  are  usually  buildings  of  comparatiyely  small  value  in  themselves,  but 

owiug  to  the  cars,  crippled  and  otherwise,  near  by,  shonlil  have  luure  protection 
than  the  values  of  the  buildings  alone  wotild  seem  to  warrant.  Barrels  of  water 
with  pails  attached  should  be  distributed  liberally  along  the  repair  tracks,  and 
about  the  buildings.  At  least  one  approved  2A-gallon  extinguisher  should  be 
kept  in  each  heated  building.  Oils,  paints,  dope,  etc.,  should  be  in  a  building 
used  only  for  that  purpose,  located  at  least  15  feet  from  other  buildings  and 
tracks.  If  of  brick  or  concrete,  and  at  least  50  feet,  if  of  wood.  Blacksmith  shop 
shoiild  be  in  a  separate  building  detached  at  a  safe  distance.  The  cripple  tracks 
should  be  cleaned  frequently  of  old  waste,  wood  chips,  shavings,  etc.,  and  the 
refuse  burned  in  a  proper  incinerator  set 'at  a  safe  distance  from  combustible 
property. 


RULES  AND  REQUIREMENTS  FOR  STORAGE  OF  CALCIUM  CARBIDE. 

It  is  necessary  for  the  safeguarding  of  property  as  well  as  lives  to  provide 
special  storage  facilities  for  any  quantity  of  such  material,  and  special  atten- 
tion is  directed  to  the  following  rules  in  connection  with  storage : 

A.  Calcium  carbide  in  quantities  not  to  exceed  600  pounds  may  be  stored 
inside  property,  when  contained  in  approved  metal  packages  not  to  exceed  100 
pounds  each,  provided  that  the  place  of  storage  be  dry,  waterproof,  and  well 
ventilated,  and  also  provided  that  all  packages  shall  be  .sealed  and  the  seals  shall 
not  be  broken. 

Note. — When  in  use  in  buiidinps.  all  but  one  of  the  packages  shall  be  sealed  and  the 
seals  shall  not  be  broken  so  long  as  there  is  carbide  Id  excess  of  1  pound  in  any  other 
UDKoaled  package  in  the  building. 

B.  Calcium  carbide  in  quantities  in  excess  of  600  pounds  to  he  stored  in 
approved  metal  packages  above  ground,  in  detached  l)uildings,  used  exclusively 
for  the  storage  of  calcium  carbide;  such  buildings  shall  be  constructed  to  be 
dry,  waterproof,  and  well  ventilated,  and  kept  under  lock  and  key. 

C.  Packages  to  be  approved  must  be  made  of  metal  of  sufficient  strength  to 
insure  handling  the  package  without  rupture,  and  be  provided  with  a  screwed 
top  or  Its  equivalent. 

They  must  be  constructed  so  as  to  be  water  and  air  tight  without  the  use 
of  solder,  and  conspicuously  marked  "  Calcium  carbide — Danqerous  if  not  kept 
dry." 

Note. — All  marhinPR  utilizing  calcium  carbide  should  be  approved  and  Installed  In  full 
accordance  with  the  rules  and  requirements  of  the  National  Board  of  Fire  Underwriters. 


DIP  TANKS. 


These  tanks  should  be  of  metal,  limited  to  the  smallest  size  practicable  for 
the  i)urpoge  required.  They  should  rest  either  upon  an  incouibu.stible  Hour, 
or  a  floor  covered  with  nietnl  so  ns  to  be  readily  cleaned. 

They  should  have  metal  tops  or  covers  which  should  always  be  in  i)la<'e 
when  the  tanks  are  not  In  use,  covers  preferably  to  be  ;intomatic  closing. 
Covers  may  be  permanently  attached  to  ends  of  tank,  arranged  to  operate 
automatically  by  means  of  fusible  links  and  counterbalance  weights. 


96  FIRE   PROTECTION   FOR   RAILROAD   PROPERTIES. 

Dip  tanks  should  be  provided  with  an  overflow  pipe  and  metal  drip  boards, 
so  that  excessive  liquid  may  flow  into  catch  drain.  The  drain  pipe  should  be 
near  the  bottom  of  all  tanks,  and  contents  of  tank  should  be  drawn  ofE  at  night 
and  returned  to  oil  house  or  vault. 

Dip  tanks  should  be  located  in  a  room  used  exclusively  for  dipping  pur- 
poses, preferably  detached  or  properly  cut  off  above  grade  with  no  basement 
below.  Not  to  exceed  one  day's  supply  of  oils  and  mixtures  should  be  kept 
therein. 

Dipping  rooms  of  an  extensive  nature  should  be  in  a  detached  building,  or 
properly  cut  off  from  main  building,  room  preferably  to  be  fireproof  or  of 
incombustible  finish. 

There  should  be  no  open  lights  nor  flame  in  room  In  which  dipping  is  car- 
ried on.  Electric  lights  should  have  vapor-proof  globes,  keyless  sockets; 
switches  to  be  outside  of  room.     Steam  heating  is  advised. 

Dipping  room  should  be  well  ventilated  to  the  open  air.  Special  inquiry 
should  be  made  as  to  the  mixtures  comprising  the  dipping  fluid,  and  place  of 
storage  of  main  supply. 

An  ample  supply  of  pails  of  sand,  chemical  extinguishers,  and  blankets  should 
be  at  hand.  A  mixture  of  sawdust  and  bicarbonate  of  soda  should  be  available 
in  pails.    Steam  jets  or  automatic  sprinklers  are  also  advisable. 


INSPECTION  OF  ASH  PANS  AND  SPARK  ARRESTERS. 

The  following  rules  are  given  for  the  care  and  inspection  of  ashpans  and 
spark-arresting  appliances  in  locomotives : 

1.  A  careful  and  thorough  inspection  of  every  part  of  the  spark-arresting 
appliances  in  front  end  of  locomotives  must  be  made  every  time  the  front  end 
door  is  opened  for  whatever  purpose,  but  at  intervals  of  not  more  than  seven 
days,  and  at  the  same  time,  the  ashpans,  hoppers,  slides,  or  other  apparatus 
for  dumping  cinders,  and  dampers  must  also  be  inspected.  Observe  if  the  slide 
or  hopper  operates  properly  and  closes  tight.  When  conditions,  such  as  ex- 
treme drought,  or  the  state  of  adjoining  property  or  crops  require  it,  this  in- 
spection must  be  made  at  least  once  every  24  hours. 

2.  A  record  of  condition  on  arrival  must  be  made  under  the  proper  heading 
on  an  approved  form,  immediately  following  each  inspection,  with  the  date 
made,  together  with  a  complete  statement  of  any  repairs  or  renewals  required. 
The  above  record  to  be  made  and  signed  by  the  person  who  made  the  inspection. 

3.  Nettings  and  spark  arresters  must  be  put  in  perfectly  tight  and  serviceable 
condition  before  the  locomotive  is  put  into  service.  Renew  netting  and  plates 
in  front  and  when  worn  thin  or  defective,  instead  of  patching  them.  Ashpans 
and  hoppers  must  be  tight  and  dampers,  slides,  or  apparatus  for  dumping 
cinders  must  be  in  good  working  order,  closing  tight. 

4.  Record  of  repairs  and  renewals  made  must  be  entered  under  the  proper 
heading  on  an  approved  form  when  repairs  have  been  made,  with  the  date ; 
the  entry  to  be  made  and  signed  by  the  person  doing  the  work. 

5.  These  are  the  minimum  requirements  and  local  conditions  or  regulations 
requiring  additional  precautions  are  not  affected  hereby. 


HANDLING,   STORAGE,  AND   TRANSPORTATION   OF  COTTON. 

New  or  remodeled  cotton  platforms  should  preferably  be  detached,  that  Is, 
located  SO  feet  from  depots  and  other  buildings,  and  when  located  on  grade 
or  curve  when  over  100  bales  capacity,  it  is  desirable  to  have  them  protected 
with  roof  covered  with  incombustible  material. 


FIEE   PEOTECTION   FOR    RAILROAD  PROPERTIES.  97 

Cotton  platforms  must  be  equipped  with  one  water  barrel  and  two  conical 
or  round-bottom  Are  pails  for  each  500  square  feet  of  space,  no  plat- 
form to  have  less  than  two  fire  barrels  and  four  tire  pails.  Conspicuous  "NO 
SMOKING  "  signs  must  be  prominently  posted  and  a  sufficient  number  of  pike 
poles  and  cotton  hooks  kept  convenient  for  immediate  xise. 

When  water  connection  is  convenient,  pipe  lines  should  be  extended  and  hose 
connections  or  hydrants  installed  in  sufficient  number  to  protect  the  property. 

The  utmost  care  must  be  used  in  burning  right  of  way,  and  in  burning  cross- 
ties  or  scrap  lumber  care  must  be  used  to  have  the  fire  a  sufficient  distance 
from  track  to  prevent  passing  trains  which  may  contain  cars  of  cotton  picking 
up  flying  sparks. 

Each  agent  must  personally  see  that  water  barrels  and  buckets  are  properly 
distributed  and  are  ready  for  inmiediate  service,  and  agents  at  terminals  and 
large  stations  nmst  see  that  all  fire-ext'nguishing  equipment,  including  water 
barrels,  fire  buckets,  and  hose  and  chemical  extinguishers,  are  in  serviceable 
condition  and  that  conspicuous  "  NO  SMOKING  "  signs  are  posted. 

Agents  must  not  permit  the  accunuUation  of  cotton  at  their  station,  and 
whenever  it  begins  to  accumulate  that  fjict  must  be  reported  to  the  proper 
officials. 

Agents  should  make  every  effcjrt  to  load  all  cotton  received  during  the  day,  but 
when  necessary  to  leave  any  accumulation  on  platform  overnight,  and  par- 
ticularly when  there  are  100  bales  or  more  a  watchman  should  be  arranged 
for  with  instructions  to  prohibit  trespassing  and  to  watch  cotton  carefully, 
particularly  on  and  after  passing  of  trains,  and  to  examine  closely  for  fire  after 
pa.ssing  of  each  train. 

Agent.s  should  wherever  possible  not  receipt  for  cotton  delivered  after  5 
p.  m.  and  under  conditions  making  late  loading  necessary,  extreme  care  should 
be  e^:ercised  with  lights. 

Caution  agents  as  to  the  danger  of  receiving  cotton  that  has  been  freslily 
ginned,  as  there  is  a  liability  of  spark  being  concealed  in  bale  in  which  case 
fire  will  burst  through  at  an  average  period  of  48  hours.  Cotton  indicating 
heating  should  be  refused  and  isolnted  and  notice  sent  to  the  proper  officials  giv- 
ing evidence  of  heat  and  the  name  of  the  gin  from  which  the  cotton  was 
received. 

When  space  permits  agents  should  keep  cotton  separated  by  lots  on  plat- 
forms and  provide  for  intervening  space  for  concentrations. 

When  congestion  necessitates  ground  storage,  cotton  should  be  kept  separated 
from  platform  by  intervening  space. 

Platform  space  under  and  around  same  and  tracks  adjacent  thereto  must 
be  kept  clean  and  scrap  cotton  and  other  inflammable  material  picked  up. 

Cotton  must  be  loaded  in  closed  cars  only. 

When  ventilator  cars  are  used,  all  vents  must  be  securely  closed  and  if  the 
openings  can  not  be  closed  spark-tight,  the  cars  must  not  be  used  for  londing 
cotton. 

When  loading  cotton,  agents  mu.st  .see  that  car  doors  facing  main  track  iire 
kept  closed,  and  before  car  Is  moved  doors  shovid  he  closed  nnd  cleated  and 
all  oi)pnings  do.sod  spark-tight. 

Conductors  must  not  move  box  cars  loiulcd  with  cotton  until  they  are  satis- 
fied that  all  openings    have  been  securely  closed  as  above  requlrofl. 

The 'parking  of  caboo.se  and  boarding  cars  within  80  feet  of  cotton  platform 
should  be  prohibited. 
84005      -19 7 


98         FIRE  PEOTECTION  FOR  RAILROAD  PROPERTIES. 

While  in  transit,  cars  containing  cotton  should  be  located  midway  of  train, 
If  practicable,  and  at  least  10  cars  from  engine,  and  under  no  circumstances 
placed  next  to  cars  containing  explosives. 

While  in  transit,  conductors  should  instruct  crew  to  keep  a  constant  watch 
on  cotton  cars  and  to  see  that  doors  remain  closed. 

Smoking  by  train  crews  or  others  around  cars  loaded  with  cotton  must  be 
prohibited. 

Hot  journal  boxes  on  cars  containing  cotton  must  be  given  Immediate  atten- 
tion.    They  must  not  be  allowed  to  blaze. 

Each  caboose  in  cotton  territory  must  be  equipped  with  necessary  iron- 
handled  pike  poles,  cotton  hooks,  and  round  bottom  or  cone-shaped  buckets. 

Engineman  must  not  work  steam  when  passing  cotton  if  possible  to  avoid  it. 

When  necessary  to  use  steam,  they  must  work  the  throttle  as  lightly  as 
possible. 

Engineman  must  not  clean  asji  pans  or  shake  grates  within  100  feet  of  cotton. 

If  engine  stack  starts  throwing  fire  on  road,  the  engineer  should  call  the 
conductor's  attention  to  it  in  order  that  extra  precautions  may  be  taken  by 
train  crew  to  guard  against  fire.  Report  of  the  same  must  be  made  by  con- 
ductor and  engineer  at  end  of  the  run. 

In  case  of  fire  in  transit,  conductor  must  stop  train  promptly  unless  the 
burning  car  or  cars  can  be  moved  to  water  tank,  or  other  water  supply. 

Every  efi'ort  must  be  made  to  put  out  the  fire ;  if  this  can  not  be  done  at 
once,  the  burning  car  or  cars  must  be  cut  out  and  placed  where  no  other  prop- 
erty will  be  damaged. 

Train  crews  will  be  expected  to  exercise  good  judgment  in  connection  with 
foregoing  rules  for  the  reduction  of  fire  loss. 

The  use  of  platforms  for  weighing  and  storing  cotton  before  offered  for  ship- 
ment and  bill  of  lading  issued,  should  only  be  permitted  by  specific  directions 
of  Federal  Managers. 

Loafing  or  loitering  around  cotton  platforms  should  be  prevented. 

No  person  should  be  permitted  to  discharge  fire  works  near  or  around  place 
where  cotton  is  stored. 

Car  inspectors  should  not  pass  cars  of  cotton  when  car  is  not  spark-tight. 

Due  consideration  may  be  given  to  the  provisions  of  such  of  these  rules  as 
may  not  require  a  strict  compliance  where  oil  is  used  exclusively  for  fuel  in 
locomotives. 


UC  SOUTHERN  REGIONAL  LIBRARY  FACILITY 


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